Kathakali Festival Chennai: 17th Edition Begins in 2026

The Kathakali Festival Chennai edition began on 18 September 2026. The Kalakshetra Foundation is organising the three-day event under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. The festival celebrates Kathakali and traditional Indian arts.

The festival takes place at the Bharata Kalakshetra Auditorium in Thiruvanmiyur. Its theme, “Kadha Rasa Sangama – Confluence of Essence of Stories”, brings together three prominent Kathakali institutions: Sadanam Academy, Kerala Kalamandalam and Margi Theatre.

Kathakali Festival Chennai showcases three productions

The inaugural ceremony was held at 5:45 PM on 18 September. Shri K. K. Mishra, IRTS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Culture, attended as the Chief Guest. Shri Suresh Kumar Chikkala, Director of the Kalakshetra Foundation, was also present.

Sadanam Academy opened the festival with “Mandodari”. Based on the Ramayana, the production explores Ravana’s final moments and Mandodari’s response to his death.

On 19 September, Kerala Kalamandalam will present “The Old Man and the Sea”. This Kathakali adaptation of Ernest Hemingway’s novel portrays Santiago’s perseverance, determination and struggle as a fisherman.

Margi Theatre will conclude the festival on 20 September with “Rugmangada Charitham”. The production depicts King Rugmangada’s devotion and the test of his faith and observance of Ekadasi.

Educational programmes at Kalakshetra

Lecture-demonstrations will run from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM on all three days at Rukmini Arangam. Kalakshetra Foundation students will then present Kathakali performances.

Established in 1936 by Rukmini Devi Arundale, the Foundation has supported India’s classical arts and traditional cultural heritage. This Kathakali Festival Chennai event also highlights the continuing role of cultural institutions in preserving artistic traditions.

Venue: Bharata Kalakshetra Auditorium, Kalakshetra Foundation, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai – 600041.