Chennai IIT Madras is all set to host the 51st Edition of Saarang, one of India’s largest student-run annual cultural festivals, from 9th to 13th January 2025. With an expected footfall of 80,000, Saarang 2025 promises to be a celebration of the niche interests of South India’s cultural scene

Embracing the art of weaving tales and the magic of visual storytelling, the theme for Saarang 2025 is ‘Frames and Fables.’

Saarang prides itself on catering to diverse interests and tastes - From the action-packed FMX show and amusement rides for thrill-seekers to the vibrant Flea Market showcasing small businesses, and the electrifying Indie and Hip-Hop Fest that promises to get everyone grooving, Saarang brings together a kaleidoscope of experiences. Each event is a testament to the fest’s spirit of diversity, offering something exciting for every visitor.

Addressing a Press Conference on the campus today (8th Jan 2025), Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, said, “Saarang is unique among events on campus. It provides an opportunity for students to bring out their vibrant energy and creativity along with innovative thinking and management skills. Events like these are not just a showcase of artistic brilliance but also a testament to the diversity of the campus. I commend all students involved in organizing this massive event, participants from all across India, and the sponsors and supporters who are contributing to make this event a grand success.”

 

The New Events and initiatives introduced in this edition of Saarang include:

• Saarang's Non-Competitive Cluster is focusing on bringing marginalized art forms and independent artists through Nova’s ‘never-before-done’ Hip-Hop and Indie Fest. Further, Meraki is organising a range of workshops aimed at promoting lesser-known cultural forms like Kalaripayattu, Parai, Oyilattam, and much more.

• The Multicultural Folk Parade is expected to be a novel step in the same direction - promoting tradition and folk art while also rooted in Saarang’s theme dedicated to the power of storytelling. The parade will be attended by Shri R.N Ravi, Hon’ble Governor of Tamil Nadu.

• ‘Empower Social Campaign’: Students are launching ‘Empower’ campaign to empower differently-abled individuals through art and culture. As part of this, the Saarang Team is going to be providing Chennai-based St. Louis Institute For Deaf and Blind with materials to aid with their education.

Speaking about Saarang, Prof. Sathyanarayana N Gummadi, Dean (Students), IIT Madras, “Saarang is an event we all wait for as it brings music and life to the institute at the start of the year. This year however is extra special because we have Tamil Nadu folk parade for the first time in the history of Saarang from Vana Vani school in campus to Open Air Theatre. In order to inculcate patriotism among young people, this year we show Moovarnam (tricolour) dance performance by school children on freedom fighters in the presence of our Honourable Governor Shri. R.N. Ravi and Isaignani Ilayaraja. In addition, we are also conducting workshops on Tamil folk arts to students and outsiders to promote Tamil Nadu culture and arts.

Prof. Sushanta Panigrahi, Faculty Advisor (Cultural), IIT Madras, said, “As we celebrate the 51st edition of Saarang, it stands as a remarkable testament to the enduring legacy of IIT Madras' cultural spirit. This year’s highlights, including the Cultural Parade and Social Campaign Stalls, showcase the diversity and vibrancy of our programming. Saarang continues to unite creativity, innovation, and inclusivity, making it more than just a festival—it’s a movement that inspires and empowers. Join us this year to celebrate the 51st edition of this cultural marvel from the 9th to 13th of January at IIT Madras.”

HIGHLIGHTS OF SAARANG 2025

Sharing the student experience of working on Saarang Arya Daoo and Manas Maheshwari, the cores of the Sponsorship and Public Relations team of Saarang 2025, IIT Madras, said, “With 850 minds working together to make Saarang the kind of phenomenon it is, we assure you that Saarang’s 51st year strives to make a mark that you wold not forget.”

Since its inception in 1974, ‘Mardi Gras’, as Saarang was known earlier, is deeply rooted in South India’s culture and has become an integral part of Chennai’s cultural heritage. To honour its Indian roots and pay homage to the spotted deer commonly found in IIT Madras’ campus, in 1996, Mardi Gras was rebranded as Saarang.

Saarang offers a unique platform for rising young artists and performers from a diverse array of art forms and interests, such as freestyle dance, photography, acapella, graphic designing, and stand-up comedy. The five-day fest will be teeming with events from the Institute’s many cultural clubs, ranging from oratory and comedy to finearts and writing and the newest, culinary arts club. These events include competitions, workshops and talented performances from across the world.

PRO SHOWS

The Professional Shows boast an impressive line-up of well-established and up-and-coming artists alike. To honour the month of ‘Marghazhi’, Day 0 of Saarang on 9th January 2025 will start with a Classical Night opened by Grammy-winning flutist Shashank Subranyam. Choreo Night on Day 1 promises to be filled with stunning performances as the stage is set to be rocked by dance troupes from across India.

EDM Night, scheduled for 11th January 2025, will be opened by the sensational DJ Frozt and headlined by the sensational, Ritviz. Day 3 will end with the Rock Night, to be graced by Antariksh and Mysore Express. The last Proshow Night is the Pop Show, headlined by none other than the beloved playback singer Amit Trivedi.

Saarang's World Fest is an international music festival that features free daytime concerts from the 10th to the 12th of January. The festival will feature a Japanese orchestra, an Italian progressive metal band, a Polish accordionist, and other performers. World Fest 2025 received generous support from the Consulate General of Italy in Bangalore, Acción Cultural Española from Spain and numerous other organizations from the artists' home countries.

LECTURE SERIES

Another event that definitely promises to be the highlight for many is the ‘Spotlight Lecture Series.’ Saarang is all set to welcome a host of esteemed speakers with a wide-ranging reach across various cultural domains. This includes K S Chithra, Niharika NM, Sandy Master, Lydian Nadaswaram, and Kishen Das. Every session provides the audience with profound insights and captivating experiences from the renowned celebrities’ lives.

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