India - A new light and sound show at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Khajuraho Temples in Madhya Pradesh is captivating audiences with a mesmerising blend of projection mapping, holograms, dynamic lighting, and 5.1 audio.
Created by Tricolor India Schauspiel, this visual spectacle is powered by seven Christie D23WU-HS 1DLP laser projectors, delivering brightness and image quality to bring the rich history of these thousand-year-old monuments to life. This new 35-minute show, commissioned by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation and voiced by actor Amitabh Bachchan, takes visitors on an immersive journey through time, narrating the temple’s storied past like never before.
“The primary objective was to create an engaging evening attraction for visitors,” said Himanshu Sabharwal, chief creative officer, Tricolor India Schauspiel. “During the day, tourists see the remains of these magnificent temples. But at night, we bring their ancient glory to life. The Christie D23WU-HS projectors played a pivotal role in making this vision a reality.”
Deploying projection technology in a heritage site posed challenges. With strict Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) restrictions, the projectors had to be installed outside the complex, at a distance of nearly 100m. “The site demanded maximum output on a modest budget. The Christie D23WU-HS projectors, with their high brightness and omnidirectional capabilities, exceeded expectations, delivering vivid imagery even at a distance,” Sabharwal noted. “By strategically stacking and orienting the projectors, we achieved an optimal visual impact while preserving the sanctity of the site.”
One of the most striking moments in the show is a torch effect sequence depicting British surveyor T.S. Burt’s rediscovery of the temples in 1838. By seamlessly blending projection mapping and laser lighting, the effect creates a powerful visual narrative. “Even with additional lighting elements, the D23WU-HS projectors maintained their intensity and clarity, ensuring that every detail remained vivid on the weathered temple surfaces,” said Sabharwal.
Since its debut in January 2025, the show has garnered rave reviews, with audiences praising its immersive storytelling and emotional depth. Beyond entertainment, the project underscores the growing role of projection mapping in monument conservation and tourism. “Affordability and high brightness will unlock even more possibilities beyond infotainment,” Sabharwal added. “This project has further strengthened my confidence in Christie’s 1DLP laser projectors, proving that high-impact experiences can be achieved even within budget-conscious projects.”
Rishubh Nayar, sales director for India, Enterprise at Christie, commented: “We are proud to see our Christie D23WU-HS projectors playing a key role in illuminating the great temples of Khajuraho. This project stands as a testament to how projection technology can enhance cultural heritage in remarkable ways. Tricolor India Schauspiel has set a new benchmark for experiential storytelling in India, pushing the boundaries of visual innovation.”
