Music and Dance festival, Chennai. (December)

The classical tradition is an ancient and sophisticated art form stretching back over thousands of years. Originating in the temples and performed by the devadasis, the classical styles have been associated with mythology, philosophy, and spiritual beliefs of the Hindu culture and, in more recent times, the Islamic tradition.Classical dance has its roots in the Natya Shastra, the earliest known written text on dramaturgy. Attributed to the Sage Bharata in the second century, this Sanskrit treatise defines drama, comprising speech, mime, dance, and music, and lays down the principles governing technique and aesthetics.

Chennai music and dance festival is a celebration of classical music and dance of South India (Carnatic Music) held during mid December to mid January in the capital city of Chennai. The festival is held at a number of venues around the city by various sabhas or organizations.

The 'Margazhi festival of dance and music' started early back in 1927, to commemorate the anniversary of Madras Music Academy every December was later adopted by various organizations which held art festivals in different parts of the city.

The city comes alive with the festival which has now developed into a cultural extravaganza with more than 2000 participants. Performances include Vocal and Instrumental music, Dance - solo and group, both by junior and senior artistes. Even upcoming artists get a chance to perform along with well-established artists. The music includes songs in various South Indian languages like Tamil, Telugu and Kannada and instruments like Flute, 'Veena' (a large string instrument) 'Goottuvadyam' (similar to Veena but without frets), 'Nagaswaram' (pipe), 'Thavil' (percussion instrument), 'Mridangam' (drum), and even 'Ghatam' (a mud pot). Information about the tickets and the venues can be had from the tourist office, Chennai.

Accessibility

Air : Meenampakkam Airport in Chennai has both domestic and international terminals. Regular flights connect Chennai with the major cities within the country and also with countries abroad.

Rail : Chennai is well connected by rail with the important towns and cities within and beyond the state.

Road : State transport buses and private buses connect Chennai with the major towns and cities within the country. For local transportation local trains, city buses, auto rickshaws and taxis are available.