The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) is all set to host its flagship annual technical festival, Shaastra 2026, on its campus from January 2 to January 6, 2026. Now in its 27th edition, the student-managed extravaganza is projected to draw a massive crowd of over 80,000 visitors from across India, offering a deep dive into the world of science, engineering, and innovation.
A Festival of Innovation and Hands-On Learning
Shaastra, which began in 2000, has grown into a premier platform for student-led engagement with technology. The 2026 edition, operating under the theme "Artifacts of Arcade," is designed as an interactive environment where every activity is a progressive challenge. The festival boasts an impressive lineup of approximately 80 distinct events and will feature 130 exhibition stalls displaying cutting-edge innovations and research from IIT Madras labs.
What makes Shaastra unique is its complete student ownership. A dedicated team of over 750 students handles the planning and execution, following an ISO 9001:2015-certified process to ensure seamless operations. The event mix includes technical competitions, hands-on workshops, academic conferences, and public exhibitions, all structured as independent modules to encourage active participation and problem-solving.
New Events and Academic Highlights for 2026
This year's festival introduces several exciting new competitions designed to push boundaries. Tech enthusiasts can look forward to Robo GP, a high-octane robotic racing challenge using nitro-powered systems. BioBattle will task participants with creating healthcare solutions inspired by biomimicry, while NeuroHack marks IIT Madras's first brain-computer interface hackathon utilizing EEG data.
Other novel additions include the E-Contest for coding in non-conventional languages and Quantified Dilemma, which blends game theory and psychology. For educators, the VidhyaVahak programme will host an Educators Conclave focusing on professional development and pedagogy.
The academic core of Shaastra remains robust with ICON26, an international conference on smart manufacturing and industry-academia collaboration. The Digital Governance Summit will tackle issues of citizen-centric governance and open-source digital public infrastructure. The festival will also host Spotlight Lectures by eminent personalities including External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Turing Award winner Prof. Jeffrey Ullman, and former NSF Director Prof. Subra Suresh.
Cultural Fusion and Community Outreach
Shaastra 2026 promises more than just technical rigor. The evenings will come alive with a unique blend of technology and culture. A highlight is the Tech-Entertainment Night, featuring electronic music and stand-up comedy, aimed at broadening public engagement.
True to its mission of societal impact, the festival's outreach vertical, Enreach, will extend its activities beyond campus. Initiatives planned for 2026 include assisting small and medium enterprises with digital transformation, conducting ideathons on accessibility challenges, and running cybersecurity awareness sessions for senior citizens. These efforts underscore Shaastra's commitment to linking technical knowledge with tangible social applications.
With its powerful combination of intellectual stimulation, competitive spirit, and cultural vibrancy, Shaastra 2026 is poised to be a landmark event, cementing IIT Madras's role as a cradle of innovation and a connector between the tech community and society at large.
