The cultural calendar of Chennai is set to be enriched with the vibrant hues of Kerala's heritage as the city prepares to host the eighth edition of the Malayali Markazhi Mahotsavam. Titled 'Sargam 2026', this grand festival will unfold over three days from January 2 to 4 at the Asan Memorial School premises.
A Symphony of Art and Culture
Organised collaboratively by Ashrayam and the Asan Memorial Association, the event is thoughtfully scheduled to coincide with the auspicious Tamil month of Margazhi. This timing places it alongside other major cultural celebrations in the region, offering a distinct Malayali flavour to the season. The festival promises an immersive dive into the artistic traditions of the Malayali community, featuring a diverse lineup that includes classical dance, vocal and instrumental music, traditional folk art forms, theatre, and exhibitions of photography and books.
The Grand Highlight: A Mohiniyattam Spectacle
Undoubtedly, the centrepiece of this year's edition is a breathtaking mega Mohiniyattam performance by 200 dancers from across Chennai. This large-scale presentation is being choreographed by renowned artists Bindu Namboothiri and Shruthi Shobi. The graceful movements of the dancers will be complemented by the powerful percussion led by Devarajan Marar and his team, promising an auditory and visual feast.
A Myriad of Cultural Events
Beyond the Mohiniyattam spectacle, Sargam 2026 is packed with a variety of engaging events designed to appeal to all ages. Attendees can look forward to a traditional kolam competition and the vibrant Padayani-Velakali performance by the Thiruvalla Kaviyoor Sreebhadra troupe. The festival will also feature the witty narrative art of Ottam Thullal by Kalamandalam Suresh Kaliyath and a captivating sound illusion act by Ravikumar.
The theatrical offering includes the play 'Madan Moksham', with Pramod Veliyanadu playing the lead role. Dance aficionados can enjoy a performance by Uttara Unni, while music lovers will appreciate a violin recital by Ganga Sasidharan. A painting exhibition and a talk show round off the diverse programme, ensuring there is never a dull moment.
Inauguration and Community Celebration
The inaugural ceremony will be graced by acclaimed filmmaker Sathyan Anthikkad as the chief guest, adding a touch of cinematic prestige to the cultural event. Sargam 2026 stands as a significant platform for the Malayali community in Chennai to celebrate, preserve, and share their rich cultural legacy with the wider public. It fosters a sense of community pride and offers a valuable opportunity for cultural exchange during the festive Margazhi season.
By bringing together such a wide array of traditional and contemporary art forms under one roof, the festival not only entertains but also educates and strengthens the cultural fabric of the city. It is a testament to the thriving and dynamic nature of regional cultures within India's metropolitan landscape.
