SERENDIPITY ARTS FESTIVAL MARKS DECADE, PANJIM BECOMES CANVAS

In the heart of Panjim, amidst the sway of Palolem winds and the rhythm of rustling palms, the Serendipity Arts Festival unfolded something audacious - The Brij Incubator - a live pitch arena where dreams met cold, curious eyes à la Shark Tank, but for the world of art and craft startups.

- MURTAZA ALI KHAN

Here, young makers stood before judges like gladiators of craft, not just seeking capital but demanding dignity for traditions underestimated for too long.

This December, as the Serendipity Arts Festival returned for its 10th milestone edition, Panjim's riverfront, heritage buildings, art districts, auditoriums, and open-air stages came alive with over 250 curated projects, bringing together artists, performers, musicians, chefs, designers, and storytellers from across India and the world.

Marking a decade of cultural engagement, the Serendipity Arts Festival has embraced a nomadic turn, travelling across cities and continents to spark dialogue between diverse creative communities. From poetry, performance, and exhibitions in Birmingham to collaborations in Ahmedabad, ghazal evenings in Delhi, River Raag experiences expanding to Varanasi, and curated gatherings in Chennai and Gurugram, the festival has reimagined how art moves and connects. With Dubai as its next stop and Paris on the horizon, the journey will culminate in Goa next year with its largest edition yet

The 10th edition featured an exceptionally strong theatre programme, ranging from intimate monologues to expansive, multi-sensory productions. Audiences encountered stories that moved from small towns and villages to mythical realms, including the award-winning 'Nihsango Ishwar,' the imaginative "The Legends of Khasak,' and experimental works such as 'Handle With Care' and 'Bob Marley from Kodihalli,' blending humour, realism, and contemporary concerns.