Chennai’s Margazhi music season, traditionally known for packed auditoriums, bustling canteens and vibrant cultural spirit, is witnessing noticeable concerns this year over thinning crowds, with organisers and rasikas pointing to changing audience habits, technology, and rising costs as key reasons.
Several sabhas reported that footfall has been uneven, particularly for weekday concerts and afternoon slots. “Earlier, people would queue up outside halls hours before a performance. Now we see empty rows even for reputed artistes,” said a senior sabha organiser, expressing concern over the declining turnout.
Many observers say the digital revolution has altered cultural consumption patterns. With concerts now widely available online and performances streamed through various platforms throughout the year, the exclusivity of the season appears to be fading.
‘Today’s tech world gives rasikas everything on their phones and laptops. When music is available anytime, anywhere, the urgency to attend live concerts reduces,” said a Carnatic enthusiast.
Rising ticket costs and expensive season passes are also being cited as deterrents, particularly for younger audiences and middle-class families. “The ticket rates are simply not student-friendly. Youngsters love classical music, but affordability matters. If we want to retain them, pricing must be realistic,” said a college student and music learner.
Traditional Margazhi staples like sabha canteens too have reportedly lost some of their earlier charm. Some rasikas felt the festive buzz was muted this time. “Earlier, the canteen itself was an attraction — it was a place for conversations, laughter and community bonding. This season, that enthusiasm feels missing,” remarked an elderly concert-goer.
However, organisers remain hopeful, noting that key performances and marquee concerts continue to draw strong support. They believe Margazhi’s cultural legacy remains intact but requires adaptation.
“Margazhi is not just a festival, it is an emotion for Chennai. We need to reinvent—better outreach, hybrid formats, and more youth engagement. The tradition will survive, but it must evolve,” said another organiser.
As Chennai’s iconic music season reflects both nostalgia and new realities, the debate continues on how to balance heritage with changing times while ensuring that the spirit of Margazhi remains alive in the hearts of future generations.