Kattankulathur, February 2026:
SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) inaugurated Milan 2026, its flagship national-level cultural festival, with grandeur and enthusiasm on February 19, 2026, at its Kattankulathur campus. Marking its 18th edition, Milan has continued its legacy as one of India’s largest student-run cultural festivals, bringing together talent, creativity, and cultural diversity on one vibrant platform, as SRMIST proudly journeys through its 40th year of academic excellence and transformative legacy.
Held under the theme “Live the Change: Indian Maximalism,” Milan 2026 has drawn overwhelming participation from over 60,000 students, with participation from 350 colleges, spanning 28 states and over 60 countries, reinforcing its stature as a truly global celebration of youth, art, and cultural expression.
The grand inauguration ceremony, held at 6:30 PM, was graced by popular actress Dr. Sreeleela, who praised the scale, inclusivity, and vibrant spirit of Milan. She highlighted that SRMIST stands as a truly Pan-India institution with a rich diversity of students from across the country and around the world, and commended the university for fostering an environment where creativity and cultural exchange thrive. She appreciated the students’ dedication in organizing such a large-scale festival and acknowledged Milan as a powerful platform that empowers young talent.
The inaugural ceremony was also graced by distinguished dignitaries including Mrs. Padma Priya Ravi; Mrs. Manimangai Sathyanarayanan; Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRMIST; Dr. S. Ponnusamy, Registrar, SRMIST; and Dr. Nisha Ashokan, Director, Directorate of Student Affairs, SRMIST, along with the student coordinators and domain secretaries representing the Colleges of Engineering & Technology, Medical & Health Sciences, Science and Humanities, Management, and Law at SRMIST for Milan 2026.
Dr. T. R. Paarivendhar, Founder Chancellor of SRM Group, remarked:
“At SRM, we believe education extends far beyond classrooms. Platforms like Milan enable students to explore their creative potential, strengthen team-building skills, transform their ideas into reality through execution, and grow into confident leaders prepared to make meaningful contributions to society—truly reflecting SRM’s guiding motto: Learn. Leap. Lead.”
Organized by the Directorate of Student Affairs (DSA), Milan 2026 stands as a shining example of student leadership, with students leading the planning, coordination, and execution of the entire festival. Appreciating their commitment, Dr. Nisha Ashokan, Director, Directorate of Student Affairs, SRMIST, said:
“Milan represents the spirit, creativity, and leadership of our students. Their passion, teamwork, and perseverance have transformed this festival into a grand and unforgettable experience. It is inspiring to see them manage an event of this magnitude with such professionalism and enthusiasm.”
The opening night witnessed a mesmerizing live performance by Mithoon, marking his first-ever concert in Chennai. Renowned for his soulful and emotionally resonant music, he performed some of his most iconic compositions, including “Tum Hi Ho” from Aashiqui 2, “Galliyan” from Ek Villain, “Phir Bhi Tumko Chaahunga” from Half Girlfriend, and “Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage” from Kabir Singh. His powerful performance captivated thousands of attendees, creating an unforgettable musical experience and setting an electrifying tone for the festival.
The excitement will continue on Day 2 (February 20, 2026) with a highly anticipated live concert by Santhosh Narayanan, one of India’s most innovative music composers. Known for redefining contemporary Indian film music, he has delivered pathbreaking soundtracks for films such as Jigarthanda, Kabali, Kaala, Vikram Vedha, Karnan, etc. His upcoming performance is expected to deliver a genre-defying musical experience blending indie, folk, electronic, and cinematic sounds.
Day 3 (February 21, 2026) will feature electrifying performances by the dynamic indie band Office Gaana and DJ Viola, promising high-energy entertainment that reflects contemporary youth culture and modern musical expression.
The festival will conclude on Day 4 (February 22, 2026) with a grand valedictory ceremony featuring actress Anishma Anilkumar, where winners of various cultural competitions will be honoured, and the collective achievements of participants and organizers will be celebrated.
Milan 2026 is set to continue as an unforgettable celebration of talent, diversity, and student spirit, truly embodying its theme, “Live the Change.”
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