IIT-Madras's Saarang is back in physical mode
- 12th Jan 2023
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The Times of India
CHENNAI: Saarang 2023, IIT Madras' cultural extravaganza, in its 28th edition, is back in a full-fledged physical mode for the first time after the Covid-19 pandemic, with close to 100 events to be held from January 11 to 15. The Times of India is the presenting sponsor of the festival, one of the country's largest student-run events, which is expected to host 500 colleges nationwide and register 80,000 footfalls.
This year's theme is 'Mystic Hues,' a focus on celebrating the country' various cultures and traditions, and an eclectic young student talent. "We're very excited to host Saarang 2023. We are certainly seeing a large pan-Indian participation and have no doubt the festival will come alive with colour and festivity, owing to the efforts of students and our generous financial contributors," said IIT-M director V Kamakoti on Wednesday.
This year's festival has 'Panacea', a social campaign on health and hygiene awareness, aimed at encouraging healthy habits to thwart disease breakouts, including personal wellbeing and fitness, environmental hygiene, public and general health awareness, sanitation and sexual health. The campaign was taken to primary and middle school students through informative presentations and text-based games in the weeks leading up to Saarang 2023. In addition to the classical, choreo, EDM, and rock nights, there will be a Korean festival featuring a variety of events including a K-pop dance troupe and a ramen eating competition.
Another highlight will be 'Spotlight Lectures' featuring television presenter-actor Suma Kanakala, and journalist Palki Sharma on January 13 and January 15. "We're happy to bring back our silent disco, a big hit a couple of years ago, along with our flagship events such as anime fest Panache - the fashion show; and Decibels and Tarang - the musical talent hunts, which have seen legends such as AR Rahman
in the past," said Jai Santhoshi, cultural affairs secretary of IIT Madras.