SPIC MACAY Convention Begins At IIT-H

Hyderabad: A week-long cultural immersion featuring some of India’s most celebrated classical artists and 1,500 students will commence at IIT Hyderabad on May 26. The 10th edition of the SPIC MACAY International Convention will bring together famed musicians such as Pt Hariprasad Chaurasia, Begum Parween Sultana, Pt Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Dr N. Rajam, Raja-Radha Reddy and dozens of others, who will not only perform but also engage directly with young participants.

Described as a “journey inward” rather than a conventional arts festival, the convention blends rigorous artistic training with early morning yoga, heritage walks, film screenings and community service. “This is not about watching performances, it’s about a transformative experience,” said SPIC MACAY founder Dr Kiran Seth at a press meet in Hyderabad. “We awaken students at 4 am not to test them, but to help them discover something deeper.”

Run by volunteers, the convention admits students through a competitive selection process and provides free accommodation and meals. National chairperson R.M. Tiwari described it as “a people’s movement rooted in stillness, not spectacle,” and highlighted its expanding reach across educational institutions nationwide.

IIT Hyderabad director Prof B. S. Murty said, “Our campus will resonate with ragas and rhythm. This is where innovation meets heritage.” Convention conveners Kona Lakshmivalli and Kalapoorna Nalla called the gathering a “living classroom” and praised the “silent army” of youth volunteers driving it.