Each region of India has its own performance art: whether it’s the soulful melodies of Baul singers in West Bengal, the energetic Bihu dances of Assam, or the intricate storytelling of Kathputli puppetry in Rajasthan. From Oggudolu in Telangana to Chavittu Natakam in Kerala, these art forms are living legacies that reflect the history, spirituality, and daily lives of their people.
Catch all the above right here in Hyderabad at Folk Fest 2025. Organized by the Centre for Folk Culture Studies, School of Social Sciences (SSS), in collaboration with the Department of Language & Culture, this two-day festival promises a rich celebration of folk traditions from across India.
The event will feature paper presentations, cultural performances, traditional dances, and captivating folk music.
Day 1 Highlights
The first day of Folk Fest 2025 will kick off with an exhibition on Rarh folklore by Dr. Md. Intaz Ali from Netaji Subhash Open University. This will be followed by mesmerizing performances of Parai and Karagatam (traditional art forms from Tamil Nadu). Attendees can look forward to insightful paper presentations by Dr. Justin Selvaraj from Madurai Kamaraj University and Dr. Rajasekharan from the Central University of Karnataka.
Adding a cinematic touch, Keli Ramachandran’s documentary on Chavittu Natakam/Thirai Koothu will be screened, showcasing the dynamic storytelling traditions of Kerala. The evening will come alive with Tappatam and Karagatam performances by artists from Madurai and an enchanting Bihu dance performance by Assamese artists.
What To Watch On Day 2
The second day will feature interactions with prominent scholars, including Dr. Govinda Varma Raja and Dr. Rethi Thampatty from ZGC Kozhikode, Dr. Intaj Ali, and Prof. Bhim Singh from UoH. These sessions will provide academic perspectives on the enduring significance of folk traditions.
The day will also include enthralling performances of Oggudolu by Dr. Oggu Ravi and troupe, Telangana folk songs by Dr. Linga Srinivas and troupe, and a spellbinding Perini performance by Varkala Vasumathi and team. Attendees will also experience the soulful charm of Malayalam folk songs by Ganga Sauvrav.
Grand Finale
Folk Fest 2025 will conclude with a grand finale of musical brilliance. Attendees will be treated to the mystical Baul songs by Purnendu Das from West Bengal and the captivating Hao folk songs by Padma Shri Guru Rewben Mashangva from Manipur. These performances promise to leave the audience spellbound, showcasing the unity in diversity of India’s folk traditions.
When: January 23 and 24, 2025
Where: University of Hyderabad, India Post Lingampally CR Rao Road, Gachibowli
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