Saarang

Saarang is the annual social and cultural festival of IIT Madras, a tradition that has been celebrated since 1974, making it the second oldest college festival in India. This five-day extravaganza attracts over 60,000 attendees from more than 500 colleges across the nation. Entirely student-run, Saarang features a distinctive organizational structure and has evolved considerably over the years.

The festival offers a diverse array of events that cater to various interests, including lectures, competitions, international cultural showcases, rock concerts, EDM nights, classical performances, and popular evening events. Originally known as 'Mardi Gras,' the festival was rebranded to 'Saarang' in 1996 to incorporate an Indian theme into its identity.

Saarang has become a fixture in Chennai's cultural calendar, with commercial sponsorships increasing annually. The festival has hosted a number of notable speakers and performers, such as Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Kamal Haasan, and Nucleya, among others.

Over the years, Saarang has built a reputation for hosting a wide range of events, from competitive activities to cultural shows and musical performances. Sponsors like MRF Limited, Max, Vodafone Essar, and Nokia have supported the festival, contributing to its success. With its unique blend of cultural, academic, and entertainment offerings, Saarang has become a must-attend event for students nationwide.