Navarathri Music Festival 2026 – Navarathri Sangeetholsavam

Navarathri Music Festival 2026 – Navarathri Sangeetholsavam

The Navarathri Music Festival, also known as Navarathri Sangeetholsavam, is a prestigious annual celebration of Carnatic classical music held at the historic Navarathri Mandapam within the Kuthiramalika Palace complex in East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram.

Scheduled from 11 to 21 October 2026, the festival takes place during the auspicious Navarathri period, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and the nine forms of Devi. The concerts are regarded as musical offerings to the goddess, bringing together devotion, classical artistry and Kerala’s rich cultural traditions.

A major highlight is the performance of compositions by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal, the former ruler of Travancore and a celebrated composer. The festival follows established musical traditions, with concerts beginning with Thodaya Mangalam and Ganapathi Stuthi before the principal performances.

The venue is known for its intimate atmosphere, traditional oil-lamp lighting and distinctive acoustics created by earthen pots suspended from the ceiling. These features contribute to the festival’s special musical and spiritual character.

The programme attracts respected Carnatic vocalists and instrumentalists, offering audiences an opportunity to experience classical music in a historic setting closely connected to Kerala’s royal and devotional heritage.

Event Details

• Dates: 11–21 October 2026

• Time: 6:00 PM–8:30 PM, as listed by Kerala Tourism

• Venue: Navarathri Mandapam, Kuthiramalika Palace complex, East Fort, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

• Category: Carnatic Classical Music / Devotional Music / Cultural Festival

• Musical focus: Carnatic compositions, including works by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal

• Festival significance: A musical offering during Navarathri, honouring Goddess Saraswati and Kerala’s classical music traditions

The festival is a significant cultural attraction for classical music enthusiasts, devotees and visitors interested in Kerala’s performing arts heritage. Dates are subject to local religious customs, so confirm the schedule before attending.