10th International SPIC MACAY Convention Inaugurated at IIT Hyderabad
Hon’ble Governor of Telangana Graces the Inaugural Ceremony of a Week-Long Cultural Immersion
Hyderabad : The 10th
of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) was ceremoniously inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) by the Hon’ble Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu Dev Varma. The event marks the beginning of a transformative, week-long immersion into India’s classical arts, spiritual heritage, and cultural wisdom.
Over 1,500 students and volunteers from across India and abroad have converged at IITH to participate in this enriching journey, which blends traditional Indian knowledge systems with experiential learning.
The day commenced with early morning introspection and a holistic breakfast, establishing a routine that balances discipline with mindfulness. The forenoon featured a screening of Sir Richard Attenborough’s Oscar-winning film Gandhi, followed by a thought-provoking discussion led by SPIC MACAY Founder, Dr. Kiran Seth. He emphasized the philosophical underpinnings of Gandhian values such as simplicity, self-discipline, and inner strength.
Post-lunch, an orientation for participants and faculty coordinators encouraged attendees to embrace the convention as a spiritual retreat akin to an ashram, marked by austerity and introspection.
At 4:00 PM, the air resonated with divine vibrations from a Nadaswaram recital by Padma Shri Vidwan Sheikh Mahboob Subhani and Vidwan Kaleeshabi Mahaboob, setting the stage for the evening’s formal inauguration.
During the grand inaugural ceremony held at 6:00 PM, Hon’ble Governor Shri Jishnu Dev Varma lauded SPIC MACAY’s commitment to preserving India’s intangible cultural heritage. “SPIC MACAY is not merely an organization—it is a movement reflecting our civilizational ethos and collective consciousness. It reconnects our youth with the soul of the nation, shaped by sages, philosophers, and the eternal teachings of the Vedas and Upanishads,” he said.
In a heartfelt address, the Governor spoke of his personal association with SPIC MACAY and highlighted his pride in seeing the Tripuri folk dance Hojagiri featured in the convention. Recalling the rich cultural tapestry of his native Tripura, he noted how Hindustani music once flourished there under the patronage of the Maharajas and is being revived through such initiatives. He also reminisced about his participation in past conventions held in Delhi, Kharagpur, and Nagpur, reaffirming his continued support as a long-time member.
Following the address, audiences were treated to an expressive Kuchipudi recital by Padma Bhushan awardees Shri Raja and Smt. Radha Reddy. Their performance, featuring excerpts from Bhama Kalapam, enthralled viewers with its intricate storytelling and devotional energy. The evening concluded with a soul-stirring Hindustani violin concert by Padma Bhushan Dr. N. Rajam, whose gayaki ang style evoked deep emotional resonance.
A Cultural Odyssey: May 27–31, 2025
Each day of the convention will begin at 3:30 AM with Brahma Muhurta sessions featuring Hatha Yoga, Nada Yoga, and guided meditation by luminaries such as Ustad F. Wasifuddin Dagar, Swami Tyagarajananda, Zarna Mohan, Brahma Kumaris, Guru Ghanakanta Bora, and Vidushi Manda Sudharani.
Intensive Workshops led by eminent gurus will follow, covering 28 classical disciplines—music, dance, crafts, and folk arts—upholding the guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition).
Afternoons are devoted to screenings of spiritual and classical cinema, expert talks, and traditional theatre. Each evening will close with concerts by leading classical artists, celebrating the vast heritage of Indian performing arts.
Grand Finale – May 31, 2025
The closing day will feature performances by students, showcasing what they’ve learned during the intensive workshops. The convention will culminate in an all-night Raatri Baithak, featuring a stellar lineup including:
- Vidwan G.J.R. Krishnan
- Vidushi Lalgudi Vijayalakshmi
- Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar
- Pandit Suresh Talwalkar
- Ustad Bahauddin Dagar
- Vidushi Kapila Venu
- Ustad F. Wasifuddin Dagar
About SPIC MACAY
Founded 48 years ago, SPIC MACAY is a volunteer-driven, non-profit movement dedicated to fostering the appreciation of Indian classical music, dance, and culture among youth. With over 5,000 programs annually across India and abroad, SPIC MACAY enriches students’ lives through concerts, heritage walks, workshops, and more.
Supporters: Government of Telangana, Government of Uttar Pradesh, Ministry of Tourism (Incredible India), IIT Hyderabad, Indian Oil, Aga Khan Trust for Culture, Doordarshan, NMDC, Times of India, KIMS Foundation, and many others.
About IIT Hyderabad
Established in 2008, IIT Hyderabad has rapidly emerged as a leader in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship. Ranked 3rd in Innovation and 8th among Engineering Institutes by NIRF, IITH’s motto, “Inventing & Innovating in Technology for Humanity,” reflects its dynamic and socially-conscious vision. The institute boasts 325 full-time faculty, over 5,300 students, 11,680+ publications, 510+ patents, and a goal to file 365 patents in 2025 under its “Patent a Day: Mission 365.”
