Chennai is a major centre for music, art and culture in India.
[82] The city is known for its classical dance shows and Hindu temples. Every December, Chennai holds a five-week long
Music Season celebrating the 1927 opening of the
Madras Music Academy.
[83] It features performances (
kutcheries) of traditional
Carnatic music by hundreds of artists in and around the city. An arts festival called the
Chennai Sangamam, which showcases various arts of Tamil Nadu is held in January every year. Chennai is also known for
Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form that originated in
Tamil Nadu. An important cultural centre for Bharatanatyam is
Kalakshetra, on the beach in the south of the city.
[84] Chennai is also home to some of the best choirs in India, who during the Christmas season stage various carol performances across the city in Tamil and English.
[85][86]
