Diwali Joy Multiplies as Aalekh Foundation Presents ‘Anant Samagam’ Cultural Extravaganza to Delhiites
Anant Samagam, a unique two-day cultural festival by the Aalekh Foundation, successfully concluded at the Travancore Palace in Delhi with an immersive celebration of the vibrant cultures of Northeast India and Kerala. The event brought the essence of both regions in a dynamic showcase. Marking the Diwali season in Delhi NCR, the event, held in association with Amazing Namaste Foundation, aims to deepen understanding and celebrate the vibrant cultural exchange between these geographically distant but culturally connected regions, highlighting the art, music, and culinary richness of these two distinct yet complementary landscapes.
Anant Samagam marks a very unique cultural confluence festival with several Galleries prominent amongst it is an exhibition of Handicrafts with weavers visiting from the NE and Kerala, Artifacts and Handicrafts, live pottery making etc. Food courts showcasing cuisines and delicacies from both regions apart from food talk and demos.
Commenting on the vision behind Anant Samagam, Dr. Rennie Joyy, Founder and Managing Director of Aalekh Foundation, shared, “With Anant Samagam, our vision extends beyond celebration to the fostering of connections between Northeast India and Kerala, two regions with shared cultural legacies. This platform is an invitation for communities to rediscover the shared heritage and creative spirit that defines us as a nation. By showcasing these art forms, traditions, and innovations, we are not only honouring the past but also inspiring future generations to appreciate and carry forward this incredible cultural diversity.”
The festival also hosted a series of enriching panel discussions that explored key themes, such as “Woven Stories: Heritage & Innovation in Indian Textiles”, “Empower Her: Redefining Women’s Roles in India’s Growth Story”, “Echoes of Tradition: The Rhythm of India’s Performing Arts, “Bamboo Shoots to Cardamom Routes: Culinary Connections between Northeast and Kerala”, “Building Tomorrow: Investment Opportunities in India’s Cultural Economy”, “Cinematic Confluence: Malayalam and Northeast Films Shaping Mainstream Cinema”, “Discovering India: Unlocking the Potential of Cultural Tourism”, and “Words that Bind: Weaving Cultures Through Literature”. Experts from various fields shared insights into the cultural and economic impact of these traditions on contemporary India.
The extraordinary cultural convergence witnessed an engaging concert by K-pop sensation Aoora. Amidst this vibrant celebration, Aoora’s performance stands as the shining crown jewel—not just for his magnetic K-Pop charm but for his deep-rooted connection with Indian culture. During the concert, Aoora performed in both Assamese and Malayalam, an unprecedented feat for any international artist, highlighting his ability to sing in these languages making him a symbol of cross-cultural unity.
The event also featured an electrifying rock concert headlined by Avial, the iconic Malayalam rock band known for its alternative sound, along with Rudy And the Kool Kats and The Musical Tribal Warriors, captivated audiences with music that resonated deeply inside their hearts.
The culinary segment saw Master Chef India judge Rakesh Raghunathan offering an insightful demonstration, “Sacred Offerings: Poetry and Culinary History from Temple Kitchens,” where traditional recipes were paired with stories from temple traditions, giving attendees a taste of Kerala’s culinary heritage.
Anant Samagam also celebrates the diversity of Indian cinema through an insightful exhibition, “CINE-SYMPHONY Cinemas from the Northeast and Kerala”, and how it shapes mainstream cinema. The exhibition presents the rich cinematic exchanges between Northeast Cinema, Malayalam Cinema, and Mainstream Hindi Cinema.
Summing up both days, a fashion show was organised in the evening curated by lead fashion director Liza Varma and Sonam Dubal and other celebrity fashion artists, including Daniel Syiem, Sreejith Jeevan, Tara Bhuyan, Shalini James, Bambi Kevichusa, Jahnabi Phookan, and Aratrik Dev Varman. Each designer brought their unique perspective, blending traditional fabrics with modern cuts, showcasing the elegance and timeless appeal of Northeast and Kerala textiles.
Supported by both government and private sectors, the festival has gained notable backing from institutions like the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and the Handloom Department of the Ministry of Textiles, along with the Kerala Government’s Ministry of Culture, Kerala Tourism, and the tourism departments of Nagaland and Meghalaya. Their collective support underscores the potential of Anant Samagam to bring attention to India’s traditional artisans, weavers, and performers, whose crafts and talents contribute to the nation’s cultural identity.
Anant Samagam is a great example of cultural showcases, concerts, and discussions, offering a space for attendees to engage in India’s dynamic cultural narrative.