Gaatha Festival
Since ancient times, stories have always defined and shaped the culture and tradition of our land.
The art of storytelling is as ancient as the earliest of the civilizations. As civilization progressed with the transition of eras, so did storytelling evolve.
India is a unique country that enjoys the diversity of culture, traditions, regional histories, languages, lifestyles, food and clothing. These variations have given rise to traditional folklore and myths that have become popular over the ages in their respective lands.
Some of these developed as gaathas – stories of praise, valour, values, ethics, or lifelessons that were handed down through the oral tradition that continues from ancient times. The various forms of storytelling, each one unique to the specific region has been kept alive by patrons.
Gaatha - Mumbai International Storytelling Festival, a three-day event, was conceptualised to celebrate this heritage through storytelling in varied forms and is committed to keeping the tradition alive.
Gaatha - Mumbai International Storytelling Festival, is a collaboration between Somaiya Vidyavihar University and Mumbai Storytellers Society – both having a rich experience of conducting varied successful festivals and events in the past.
Whether it is live storytelling, or through music, dance, theatre and art, the stories promise to enthral the audience as the tellers – both Indian and International – will weave their magic. Workshops, talks and panel discussions will inform the participants about the nuances of the art of storytelling.
Gaatha brings together stories from across India as well as the world on one platform. So, if you love stories this is the place to be! Experience the alchemy of stories.
Somaiya Vidyavihar University
Somaiya Vidyavihar University, located in Mumbai, India, is a private, self-financed university established in 2019. As part of the Somaiya Vidyavihar campus, which has a rich legacy dating back to 1942, the university offers a comprehensive education experience. Students can choose from a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs, with the flexibility to pursue majors and minors across various disciplines, including engineering, management, liberal arts and sciences.
The university’s tagline, "Freedom of Possibilities," reflects its commitment to providing students with diverse opportunities for growth and exploration. It also features a cutting-edge Maker Space, fostering innovation and hands-on learning. With a strong emphasis on sports, vibrant student life, state-of-the-art facilities, and a focus on research, innovation, and community service, Somaiya Vidyavihar University is dedicated to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
Click to view WebsiteMumbai Storytellers Society
Mumbai Storytellers Society - MSS, a registered not for profit organisation, was established in 2019. It was the right time to form a society of like-minded storytellers. Our common interest was to revive the ancient oral tradition of storytelling in the community. Read More
And ever since the organisation - MSS, has continued to explore and celebrate the traditional art of oral storytelling in the community. Our aim and mission is to nurture this ancient art form in the community and promote education. Towards this endeavour, the society holds monthly meetups at venues across Mumbai that provide a platform to tell, share and listen to stories.
MSS aims to bring Social Awareness on topics ranging from Education, Environment, Art and Culture, Women’s Rights, Child Welfare and Diversity Appreciation. MSS celebrates the art of oral storytelling throughout the year with workshops and events ( both children and adults), including the monthly story events, story fusion events, story concerts (Igniting Hope) and the Mumbai International Storytelling Festival, wherein experienced international and domestic storytellers enthral the audience with their spoken narrative.
Stories resonate the culture and beliefs of a tribe or a community and passing them down to the next generation preserves this culture and tradition. This is the significance of the oral tradition of storytelling.
And, we at Mumbai Storytellers Society – MSS are the gatekeepers of this ancient art
in this thriving metropolis of Mumbai.
“Through the art of storytelling, we can preserve our heritage, educate future
generations, and inspire change.”
― Philipp Humm
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