Governor of Telangana Jishnu Dev Varma addressed the 1500 students and volunteers attending 10th International Convention of SPIC MACAY at IIT Hyderabad
Governor of Telangana, Shri Jishnu D8ev Varma formally inaugurated the week-long exploration into India’s classical and spiritual traditions – the International Convention of SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music and Culture Amongst Youth) on the
evening of May 26, 2025, at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad.
More than 1,500 students & volunteers from across India and overseas have gathered at
IITH for this immersive experience. The day began with early morning personal time and a holistic breakfast, setting the tone for a balanced and mindful routine.
In the forenoon, participants watched “Gandhi”, the Oscar-winning biopic directed by Sir Richard Attenborough. The screening was followed by a discussion led by Dr. Kiran Seth, Founder of SPIC MACAY, who reflected on the film’s philosophical depth and its portrayal of Gandhian ideals
such as simplicity, discipline, and inner strength. He remarked that the fight for freedom was a by-product of Gandhi’s personal journey, and that the pursuit of truth lies within our traditions.
He expressed that one does not fight a person, but the evil within them—a struggle that also mirrors our own inner challenges. He stated that one can become like Gandhi by overcoming personal weaknesses and transcending limitations. He emphasized that every word spoken carries great significance, and that the film Gandhi helps elevate the viewer beyond the mundane. His address was followed by a question-and-answer session with the delegates.
The post-lunch orientation session was addressed by Dr. Kiran Seth, who urged students to treat the convention as an inner journey—akin to a stay in an ashram—marked by simplicity, discipline, and self-reflection. A separate orientation was then conducted for the faculty coordinators,
emphasizing their vital role in guiding and nurturing the students throughout the week.
Key focus areas included water conservation, Shramdaan (voluntary service), and disciplined living, with a
strong emphasis on inner upliftment rather than mere entertainment. Dr. Seth also highlighted the Gurukul Anubhav Scholarship, a unique opportunity for passionate and committed students to spend 30 days learning traditional art forms under the guidance of renowned Gurus, who help inspire and sharpen their potential.
The day one performances included Nadaswaram recital by Padma Shri Vidwan Sheikh Mahboob Subhani and
Vidwan Kaleeshabi Mahaboob filled the air with auspicious sounds.
Speaking at the inauguration Governor of Telangana, “Dharma is the way we think, while religion is the way we worship,”
emphasized the importance of not conflating the two in contemporary discourse. Reflecting on his
personal association with SPIC MACAY, he expressed joy at the inclusion of “Hojagiri”—a traditional dance form from Tripura, his home state—as one of the featured performances at the 10th International Convention.
Padma Bhushan awardees Shri Raja and Smt. Radha Reddy presented an evocative Kuchipudi performance. Their performance, featuring excerpts from
“Bhama Kalapam” and other classical compositions, displayed grace, expressive clarity, and devotion.
The evening concluded with a Hindustani violin concert by Padma Bhushan Dr. N. Rajam.
Her gayaki ang style brought out the emotive essence of the ragas, offering a tranquil end to the first day’s proceedings.
A Glimpse into the Days Ahead (May 27–31):
Each day will begin at 3:30 am with Brahma Muhurta sessions in Hatha Yoga, Nada Yoga,
and meditation, guided by spiritual mentors including Ustad F. Wasifuddin Dagar, Swami
Tyagarajananda, Zarna Mohan, Brahma Kumaris, Guru Ghanakanta Bora, and Vidushi Manda Sudharani.
A key component of the convention is the Intensive Workshops, with 28 concurrent sessions in classical music, dance, crafts, and traditional arts led by renowned gurus. These allow for direct transmission of knowledge in the guru-shishya tradition.
Afternoons will feature screenings of spiritual and classical cinema, talks by eminent personalities, and presentations of folk and traditional theatre. The evenings will culminate in concerts by eminent classical artists.
