Chief Minister M.K. Stalin tries his hand at with Velu Aasan as MP Kanimozhi looks on, at the event.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday launched the annual Chennai Sangamam — Namma Ooru Thiruvizha 2026 in the city, by playing the parai drum along with parai artiste Velu Aasan in Rajarathinam stadium in Egmore, Chennai.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Stalin said Chennai Sangamam has turned into a confluence of artists. He commanded the talents of the artists who performed in the event. Mr. Stalin also congratulated Ms. Kanimozhi who has been continuously coordinating the event for the past many years.
In the coming years, the DMK government would undertake more initiatives for the promotion of art and culture, Mr. Stalin said. “Tamil Nadu will win, win, win.” In line with the announcement made earlier to sanction 60 cents of land on lease for 30 years in Valayankulam in Madurai district, Mr. Stalin handed over the orders to Mr. Velu Aasan.
About 1,500 artistes will take part in the cultural extravaganza scheduled to take place in 20 locations across the city between January 15 and 18. Ministers M.P. Saminathan, Ma. Subramanian, P.K. Sekarbabu, Thangam Thennarasu and T.R.B. Rajaa, and senior officials were also present.
Published – January 15, 2026 12:14 am IST
