From silk expos and archival fashion sales to theatre, art shows and culinary trails, Chennai lines up a week of culture, craft and cuisine
August 22 | ECR
In celebration of Madras Day 2026, YouArt presents Madras - The Kathambam, a painting exhibition featuring works by Sanhita Basu Ghose, director of Konarak Odissi Dance & Art Academy. The showcase brings together vibrant artistic expressions, capturing rich cultural themes, mythological motifs, and traditional forms on canvas. On till August 23. 11 am to 6 pm. At Cholamandal Artists’ Village.
August 21 | Triplicane
Find yourself in India’s rich textile traditions at the National Silk Expo, featuring over 1,50,000 varieties of authentic handloom silk and cotton creations brought directly by 150+ master weavers and designers across the country. The expansive exhibition showcases everything from West Bengal’s Dhakai jamdani and Baluchari to classic banarasi silks, uppada weaves, and chikan embroidery from Lucknow. On till August 25. Free entry. 11 am to 9 pm. At Kalaivanar Arangam.
August 22 | Anna Salai
Discover fine jewellery that transcends fleeting trends at an exclusive showcase by Sajjanté. Designed to celebrate individuality and craftsmanship, the collection features heirloom-worthy pieces crafted with exquisite artistry and meant to be cherished for years to come. 11 am to 7 pm. At Soma Lounge, Pullman Hotels & Resorts.
August 22 | Nungambakkam
Experience a captivating evening of drama with Chennai Chills, a theatrical production by Theatre Arlequin presented in collaboration with Alliance Française de Madras. Set against a atmospheric backdrop of rain and storytelling, the performance weaves together multiple narratives into an engaging evening. 6.30 pm. At Edouard Michelin Auditorium, Alliance Française de Madras.
August 21 | Nungambakkam
Madrasapattinam, an exclusive food and cocktail experience that celebrates the charm and rich heritage of the city is on your way. The festival reimagines beloved local street food and regional favourites with a contemporary culinary twist, featuring dishes like Podithooval loaded fries and Parotta smash burger sliders. Complementing the highlights is a creative cocktail menu inspired by iconic city stories and culture, including cheeky pours like Maami’s Martini and Marina Goyya. Till August 31. INR 1,800 for two. Available all day across Six ‘O’ One, Pasha, and The Leather Bar at THE Park Chennai.
August 21 | Mayajaal
Catch the Onam release of Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, a Malayalam romantic comedy-drama directed by Girish AD. Starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, the film revolves around a carefree man whose life gets upended when someone moves in next door. In theatres.
August 21 | Royapettah
Amethyst presents an exclusive Archival Sale featuring the celebrated designs of Rajesh Pratap Singh. This curated collection offers a rare opportunity to shop a sophisticated range of both menswear and womenswear, including precision-tailored jackets, shirts, pants, waistcoats, kurtas, dresses, tops, and saris. INR 4,000 onwards. Till August 23. 11 am to 7.30 pm. At The Folly.
August 22 | T Nagar
Explore Chennai’s culinary history through a four-course dining experience tracing the foodways of native, coloniser and migrant communities across two eras of Madras. Curated by Olivia and Ashmitha, this three-hour experience will take you closer to the city. INR 1,500 per person. Available on August 29 as well. 1 pm onwards (address upon RSVP).
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