Around 1,000 participants from Tamil Nadu, representing students, teachers, farmers, artisans, professionals, and researchers, will attend. Another 200 Tamil students from Central Universities will join visits to Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya.

This year’s event coincides with the Maha Kumbh Mela (Jan.13 to Feb.26), allowing participants to take a Shahi Snan and visit the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The theme focuses on Sage Agasthyar, highlighting his contributions to Siddha medicine, Tamil literature, and cultural unity. Activities include exhibitions, workshops, and visits to key sites like Subramania Bharati’s ancestral home and BHU’s Tamil Department.

The Sangamam, launched in 2022, continues to revive and celebrate the rich cultural heritage connecting Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh.

The festival will include a variety of traditional performances, such as naiyyandi melam, thappattam, karagattam, kaavadiattam, thevarattam, sevaiattam, k     olattam, oyilattam, and silambattam, performed by over 1,500 artists from across Tamil Nadu. These performances will take place daily between 6 pm and 9 pm at various venues like Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar), Thiruvanmiyur Beach, and many more places across Chennai, celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Elliots Beach, Besant Nagar

• Jan.14: 6 pm – Erode Mugil Kalaikuzhu (Karakattam); 6.30 pm –
  Ramanathapuram Ma. Kaliyappan Troupe (Jimbala Melam); 7 pm –
  Srikala Bharath Troupe (Bharatanatyam); 7.30 pm – Virudhunagar Ramar Troupe (Parai); 8 pm – Villupuram Kai Kodukkum Kai Troupe (Mallar Gampam); 8.30 pm – Maharashtra Lavani; 
• Jan.15: 6 pm – Cuddalore Sri Renugambal Troupe (Irai Nadanam); 6.30 pm – Kalappai Troupe (rural variety show); 7 pm – Gandarvakottai Murugaiya Troupe (Gramiya Paattu); 7.30 pm: Coimbatore Murugan Troupe (Jikkattam); 8 pm – Thoothukudi Sai Karthikeyan Troupe (Kaniyan Koothu); 8.30 pm – Aduthurai Raj Visual Arts (Karikala Cholan Drama);
• Jan.16: 6 pm – Ramanathapuram B. Marungan Troupe (Naiyandi Melam Karakam); 6.30 pm – Thoothukudi Kannan Troupe (Devarattam); 7 pm – Dr.Purisai P.K. Sambandam Troupe (Kattakoottu); 7.30 pm: Krishnagiri Makizham Troupe (Bambayyattam); 8 pm – Coimbatore Sri Veeramathiyamman Bambai (Irai Nadanam); 8.30 pm: Rajasthan Ghoomar Dance;
• Jan.17: 6 pm: Thiruvarur Surjit Troupe (Kavadi Aattam); 6.30 pm –
  Kanchipuram Vivekananda Troupe; 7 pm – Kerala Theyyam; 7.30 pm: Tiruvallur Aathi Thamizhar Troupe; 8 pm: Kanyakumari Murasu Troupe (Kazhiyal Aattam); 8.30 pm – Makka The Band (concert);

Thiruvanmiyur Beach

• Jan.14: 6 pm – Virudhunagar Ramar Troupe (Parai); 6.30 pm – Villupuram Kai Kodukkum Kai Troupe (Mallar Gampam); 7 pm – Maharashtra Lavani; 7.30 pm – Nithyasree Mahadevan (Tamil Music); 8 pm – Erode Mugil Kalaikuzhu (Karakattam); 8.30 pm – Ramanathapuram Ma. Kaliyappan Troupe (Jimbala Melam);
• Jan.15: 6 pm: Coimbatore Murugan Troupe (Jikkattam); 6.30 pm – Thoothukudi Sai Karthikeyan Troupe (Kaniyan Koothu); 7 pm – Aduthurai Raj Visual Arts (Karikala Cholan Drama); 7.30 pm – Cuddalore Sri Renugambal Troupe (Irai Nadanam); 8 pm: Kalappai Troupe (rural variety show); 8.30 pm – Gandarvakottai Murugaiya Troupe (Gramiya Paattu);
• Jan.16: 6 pm: Krishnagiri Makizham Troupe (Bambayyattam); 6.30 pm – Coimbatore Sri Veeramathiyamman Bambai (Irai Nadanam); 7 pm: Rajasthan Ghoomar Dance; 7.30 pm – Ramanathapuram B. Marungan Troupe (Naiyandi Melam Karakam); 8 pm – Thoothukudi Kannan Troupe (Devarattam); 8.30 pm – Dr. Purisai P.K. Sambandam Troupe (Kattakoottu);
• Jan.17: 6 pm – Tiruvallur Aathi Thamizhar Troupe; 6.30 pm – Kanyakumari Murasu Troupe (Kazhiyal Aattam); 7 pm – Kashyap Band (concert); 7.30 pm – Thiruvarur Surjit Troupe (Kavadi Aattam); 8 pm – Kanchipuram Vivekananda Troupe; 8.30 pm: Mayiladuthurai Gananathar Drama Sabha (Bommalattam).

The corporation playground on Rukmani Road in Kalakshetra Colony came alive last Sunday evening (Jan.5) with a fabulous cast of puppet characters performing to a delighted audience of dozens. 

The dramatically painted puppets – depicting a village headman, municipal official, mother and schoolchildren, local wiseacres – used song and dance, wit and humour to put across socially useful messages on the harmful impacts of plastic. 

The performance was sponsored by the Kalakshetra Colony Welfare Association (KCWA) to support the struggling art of ‘bommalattam’, and the artistes trying to keep it alive. It drew a large number of colony residents, and more than 20 students invited from the corporation Gandhigram school, who especially enjoyed the banter between the puppets. 

The show was presented by Kalaimamani Muthuchandra Rao, who represents the sixth generation of a family of traditional puppeteers from Kanyakumari. Their small family-run troupe conceives and creates the entire production – script and lyrics, light and sound and the puppets, made from goatskin and coloured with eye-catching natural dyes. The puppet shows are their only source of livelihood. 

Moving from mythological stories, they increasingly focus on themes of contemporary importance, like environmental protection, the importance of education, and why it is essential to use helmets on scooters. “We have brought these issues to life in ways that online lessons cannot, especially for school students who have learned a lot from our shows,” says Mr. Muthuchandran, who is the remarkably talented voice for all the puppets in his show. 

But it’s increasingly difficult to keep this ancient art form and business afloat. Support from individuals helped them to take their show to 27 schools in Salem recently. “We want to perform in many more places to keep our art alive and earn the money to build a house for our 14 family members in Tirunelveli, where a local patron has helped us to get the land title,” he said during an interaction with the audience after the show. 

He said his troupe will be performing at the Mylapore Kapaleeswarar temple and four schools in the city and hopes for more commissions before they leave on January 18. 

In an age of ubiquitous video games and non-stop online entertainment, it was a rare treat to experience this timeless art of puppetry in real life and witness the passion and commitment of the artistes. The audience expressed its admiration with spontaneous and generous monetary contributions to help their cause of building a roof over their heads. 

The Executive Committee of KCWA requests other resident welfare associations, institutions, schools and interested individuals to do their bit to support this ancient art of Tamil Nadu by organising similar shows.

Before the internet era, come Margazhi and one could find umpteen Kolam books on every corner of the street. Households got ready to depict their themes through ‘pulli’ kolams, ‘sikku’ kolams, traditional kolams or just free hand.

In an era when those books have vanished and kolam has gained the status of street art, Besant Nagar resident Dr.V.Krishnamoorthy and his sister Leela Venkatraman have created an app (by Learnfun Systems) that anyone can install and generate a variety of customised kolams. “Kolam can be simple as well as very complex. Through the app, we want to reach out not only to the beginners but amateurs alike,” explains Krishnamoorthy.

Combining tradition with cutting-edge technology, this ambitious project brings the beauty and mathematical intricacies of Kolam to a global audience through educational tools, digital platforms, and interactive experiences. “Kolam isn’t just art; it’s a combination of symmetry, mathematical precision, and cultural heritage. Our project presents Kolam as an innovative tool for scientific thinking among the youth,” says Dr. Krishnamoorthy.

The app, available in both Windows and Apple is divided into 10 parts, each focusing on a unique aspect of the art:

• Books and E-books: Detailed books exploring Kolam’s history, themes, and applications, including ‘Kolam: A Comprehensive Guide.’
• Interactive Software: Programs for creating complex Kolams in various designs and dimensions, including features like 3D effects, rotational symmetry, and integration with other media for printing on fabric and paper. Kolams of straight dots, cross dots and circular dots can be created. Kolam size can be up to 50 x 50 dots with 3 kinds of ‘suzhi’s’
• Children’s Coloring Books: Engaging resources for young learners, promoting creativity through Kolam patterns.
• Games and Puzzles: Interactive educational games designed to stimulate critical thinking and coordination skills, with challenges like ‘Odd Man Out’ and ‘Make Me Symmetric’.
• Daily Kolam Software: A curated tool showcasing unique Kolam patterns daily.

One of the project’s highlights is its advanced Kolam-generating software, which allows users to design patterns that would be impossible to create manually. From printing Kolams on saris and T-shirts to integrating complex 3D effects, the software unleashes endless possibilities for art and design enthusiasts.

All software and e-books are available for free download in Tamil and English, making the project accessible to students and enthusiasts worldwide. Updates are released every three months to ensure users enjoy new features regularly.

Leela Venkatraman, with her 75 years of Kolam expertise has designed iconic Kolams in temples across Tamil Nadu, including the famous lakh-dot Kolam at Madurai’s Meenakshi Amman Temple. Dr.Krishnamoorthy is a former professor from IIT Madras with over 38 years of experience in computer science and a passion for promoting Tamil culture through technology.

To download the App and for more details, visit www.learnfunsystems.com or contact Dr. Krishnamoorthy at prof.vkrish@gmail.com.

Computer Kolam Competition 2024

Learnfun Systems has announced the Computer Kolam Competition 2024 to coincide with the Tamil month of Margazhi. The contest stands apart from traditional Kolam drawing as participants are required to design their Kolams using the free software package provided by Learnfun Systems. The software unlocks innovative ways to create intricate patterns, challenging participants’ imagination and creativity.

The competition is open to all, with no entry fee. First Prize: Rs.5,000 and many other prizes to be won. Interested participants can download the software and explore its features. Detailed instructions and submission guidelines are available at learnfunsystems.com.

Shekhawat paid tribute to legendary artists, including Zakir Hussain, for their lifelong dedication to the arts. He also highlighted the ongoing cultural resurgence in India, which he said blends traditional values with modern influences.

The Minister noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government has implemented measures to revitalize traditional arts and provide support to artists across the nation. ‘Vikas and Virasat’ were central to his message, emphasising the importance of preserving cultural traditions while fostering progress.

In addition, Shekhawat recognised the contributions of Rukmini Devi Arundale to the arts, particularly Bharatanatyam. He stated that her work in the field surpassed the offerings of any centre of excellence, and acknowledged her founding of the Kalakshetra Foundation 71 years ago, which continues to play a vital role in nurturing Indian classical arts.

As part of the event, Minister Shekhawat inaugurated a special exhibition celebrating the legacy of Indian classical arts. Padma Vibhushan awardee Vaijayanti Mala performed a Bhava Abhinayam.

During the event, Shekhawat honoured Vaijayanti Mala for her outstanding contributions to classical dance and Indian cinema.

Annual art festival at Kalakshetra

Kalakshetra Foundation, Thiruvanmiyur, invites all to its 71st Annual Art Festival. Tickets are available Online at www.mdnd.in; Ph: 24520836, 24521844; WhatsApp: 94443 34407.

At Bharata Kalakshetra Auditorium. Schedule:

• Dec.29 at 6 pm: Kurmaavataram – Kalakshetra Foundation
• Dec.30 at 6 pm: Nirmanika – Singapore Apsaras Dance Company
• Dec.31: 5.30 pm – Carnatic Veena Concert – Ramana Balachandhran; 7 pm – Flute Concert – Pt. Ronu Majumdar;
• Jan.1 at 6 pm: Usha Parinayam – Kalakshetra Foundation
• Jan.2: 6 pm – Valedictory Function; 7 pm – Karna Sabadham – Kalakshetra Foundation.

Dec.14, featured captivating solo performances by young musicians Madhav Prahalad Iyengar (violin) and Ayushmaan Sairam (mridangam). Master storyteller Janaki Sabesh mesmerised audiences with tales of Andal, Kolam, and the essence of Margazhi. The day concluded with Lil Dikshitars, a music ensemble from the students of Aalap, celebrating Muddusvami Dikshitar’s compositions.

Dec.15 spotlighted the talents of young dancers. The lineup included Poorvarangam Kuchipudi by Asyarsee Seshu Bhogireddy (Guru Srimayi Vempati), Murugar Shabdam by Aarna Badri Narayanan (Guru Nandhini Navnith), an innovative Varnam by Taarika Senthilkumar and ShreeKavini Anand (Guru Lakshmi Ramaswamy), a soulful Kathak Bhajan by Sanaya (Guru Jigyasa Giri).

Prof. A. Janardhanan, retired Principal of Kalakshetra released the book and Kalaimamani V.Balagurunathan – Director of the academy received the first copy. 

“Kathakali and Keralanatanam are Kerala’s contributions to the performing arts that have taken shape in India,” explained V.Balagurunathan and said that the book will be given to colleges and institutions as study material or library archives.

Following the book release program, Aparna Sarma gave a Keralanatanam. She is the disciple of Bhavani Chellappan (who was a disciple of Dr. Guru Gopinath, one of the epic personalities of Keralanatyam who was instrumental in introducing and popularising Kathakali to the world).

The book, costing Rs.200, explains all the nuances and techniques of Keralanatanam. It will be available at Krishnanjali Academy. For details contact 99400 80799.

The contest featured an art competition with prizes awarded to the top three entries across various age categories. The event also included CPR/BLS training, mime shows, and games, further promoting cardiovascular wellness.

“Kauvery Hospital remains committed to innovative approaches in raising heart health awareness and encouraging healthier lifestyle choices within the community,” said a statement from the hospital.

Chief guest Kalaimamani Trotsky Marudhu, stated, “The contest showcases creativity and emphasises the importance of heart health awareness in our community. Through art, we can communicate vital messages about cardiovascular wellness and promote healthy living.”

The highlight of the show was a live perspective painting of the musical moment and day of celebration by art tutor Kency who is also a wall muralist and designer.

Art Splash invites kids and adults to join them, get trained to be part of their band and perform at different venues. Vijayadasami admissions open for keyboard, guitar, Bharatnatyam, vocals, violin, drawing and robotics. For more information, contact 87544 85092.

The dance recital featured a live orchestra, marking the debut of all orchestra members. Mentors Subshri Mani and Jyotsna Narayan were the chief guests of the event. The Carnatic music recital began with a song dedicated to Lord Ganesha, followed by compositions by Kalaimamani D.K.Pattamal, saint Narayanateertar, a Thiruppugazh and a Thiruppavai. The recital concluded with the popular song ‘Jayathi Jayathi Bharata Mata’.

The Bharatanatyam performance began with an Allarippu, followed by Thiruppavai, Jathiswaram, and Shabdam. This was succeeded by a bhajan, ‘Deena Karunakarane Nataraja’, along with a Virutham. The youngest students of Tapasya performed on ‘Madu Meikkum Kanne’, and the program concluded with a Mangalam.