Upcoming cultural festivals that you must block your calendar for

From the electric beats of music festivals to the visual delight of theatre, and the kaleidoscope of artistic expressions in between—the remainder of the year is set for a host of cultural events across the country that are sure to keep you engaged. Whether you’re looking to explore global cultures or dive into your community’s rich background to foster a deeper appreciation for diverse and wonderful traditions, we’ve put together events worth bookmarking for a culturally rich year ahead.
 

International Film Festival of India, Goa

Dates: November 20 to 28, 2023

The 54th edition of the International Film Festival of India is committed to showcasing the best of world cinema and providing a common platform for filmmakers, contributing to the understanding and appreciation of film cultures across nations in the context of their ethos. With competitive feature films, panel discussions, masterclasses, and even a film bazaar, the festival programme truly celebrates the joy of Indian and international cinema. The philosophy of inclusion, camaraderie, and togetherness encapsulates the values of the fete and stands as a testament to its commitment to providing a platform for storytellers spanning the globe, through the medium of cinema. This year, Hollywood veteran, Michael Douglas, is set to accept the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award. 

MAMI Film Festival, Mumbai

Date: October 27 to November 5, 2023 

Reconceptualised and rebranded, the festival now stands as a major South Asian—and not merely Indian—one. This year, MAMI has collapsed its India and international competitions into a lean, unified, South Asia Competition; realising that there is a need for identity-building and representation, so individual films don’t get lost in the larger world. Oscar-nominated filmmaker, Mira Nair, heads the main competition jury; joined by Australian director, David Michôd; Filipino filmmaker and actor, Isabel Sandoval; and Egyptian director, Marianne Khoury. With submissions ranging from Kayo Kayo Colour?, a black-and-white indie feature from Gujarat to The Monk and the Gun, a transnational co-production that is Bhutan’s official submission to the Oscars; the interesting roster of films will spotlight the diversity of South Asian cinema.

Prithvi Theatre Festival, Mumbai

Dates: November 3 to 13, 2023

The Prithvi Theatre Festival, initially launched in 1983, takes place at its culturally iconic namesake theatre in Mumbai. The festival showcases new, emerging, and past theatre performances. Adishakti, Ansh, Complicite, Motley, Naya Theatre, Rage Productions, and Theatre Unit are just some of the acclaimed theatre groups that have staged productions at this stage. Along with plays, the festival includes insightful talks and music concerts that explore the diversity of the performing arts. The performances promise to satiate your appetite for theatre, music, and storytelling with an amazing line-up of performances and workshops.

Art Mumbai, Mumbai

Dates: November 16 to 19, 2023

Mumbai is set to unveil its first-ever art fair with Art Mumbai! Showcasing a vast yet finely curated selection of modern and contemporary art from across India and South Asia, Art Mumbai will take place at the iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse Members’ Enclosure. With a strong line-up of galleries, and participation by foundations and prominent art institutions, Art Mumbai will blend the old-world charm of its iconic location with original and innovative art pieces. There will be a special section for craft-based art and antiquities from across the globe. While distinct styles and narratives will be on display, they will unite on a common platform of celebration of the art community: artists, galleries, curators, collectors, new buyers, enthusiasts, and even those who visit the fair for an immersive and uplifting art experience. 

Manam Theatre Festival, Hyderabad

Dates: November 24 to December 17, 2023

Presented by The We Us Collective and spanning four weekends, the Manam Theatre Festival immerses theatre aficionados in Hyderabad in the sheer magic of the performing arts. The fete brings together the city’s thriving theatre fraternity, along with visiting troupes, from across the globe for performances ranging from puppetry to live music, and masking to dancing.