IIT Madras to host Saraang 2025 cultural festival from January 9 to 13; 80,000 expected to take part

NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) will host the 51st edition of Saarang 2025, a student-run annual cultural festival, from January 9 to January 13. Around 80,000 participants from diverse backgrounds are expected to take part in the annual cultural festival, the institute said.

Based on the theme ‘Frames and Fables’, the five-day Saraang 2025 festival will include FMX show, amusement rides, flea market of small businesses, and hip-hop fest. The event celebrates the interests of south India's culture scene, the institute added.

Speaking about the event, V Kamakoti, director at 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 event will also see Tamil Nadu folk parade from Vana Vani school on campus to the open air theatre, Sathyanarayana N Gummadi, dean (students), at IIT Madras said. He further added by saying that a ‘moovarnam’ (tricolour) dance performance by school children on freedom fighters in the presence of Governor RN Ravi and Indian musician Ilayaraja will also be part of the event.

A range of speakers including KS Chithra, Niharika NM, Sandy Master, Lydian Nadaswaram, and Kishen Das will address the gathering at Saraaang during the ‘Spotlight Lecture Series’.

Saraang 2025: Events and initiatives

Given below are some of the events and initiatives that will be part of the cultural festival.

Non-Competitive Cluster: This will include different types of art forms, including Nova’s ‘never-before-done’ Hip-Hop and Indie Fest, Kalaripayattu, Parai, Oyilattam, and much more.

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Multicultural Folk Parade: Will be organised in an effort to promote tradition and folk art. This event will be attended by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi.

Empower Social Campaign: Students will be launching an ‘Empower’ campaign for differently-abled individuals through art and culture. The Saarang team will provide materials for students of St. Louis Institute for deaf and blind.

Amit Trivedi, Ritviz music shows: Musical shows and performances by Flutist Shashank Subranyam, Amit Trivedi, Ritviz, including dance troupes from across India will be part of the five-day Saraang festival.