Infosys co-founder Shibulal and wife Kumari to build a new cultural centre in south Bengaluru

In 18 months, South Bengaluru will have a unique cultural centre for theatre, Indian classical music, art, dance, and folk forms, which will also serve as a training institute for these forms.

Sangamam India, an initiative of Shibulal Family Philanthropic Initiatives (SFPI), is currently in the process of building a 20,000 sq ft. space for performances, exhibitions, teaching, and mentoring at J.P. Nagar.

“It is high time our city, especially the south of Bengaluru, had a dedicated space for all kinds of art forms, music, culture, and theatre, including stand-up comedies, plus a place to teach all these, all under the same umbrella,” S.D. Shibulal, co-founder of SFPI and co-founder and former CEO, Infosys, told The Hindu.

The facility, a three-floor building, will feature an auditorium that can seat 270 people, an exhibition hall, and a training/learning/mentoring centre on the third floor with parking space.

Kumari Shibulal said: “Music and other art forms can bring people together and create a common platform that transcend boundaries and differences. Both Mr. Shibu and I are inclined to Indian classical music, and it is our admiration for heritage and culture that sowed the seed for Sangamam a couple of years ago.’‘

Sangamam India was set up in 2022, aiming to promote the rich tapestry of India’s heritage and diverse art forms, while fostering awareness and preservation of cultural legacy. Sangamam has been hosting two major events every six months, along with monthly events throughout the year.

Sangamam currently holds its events at different auditoriums, and it has been bringing the best national and local artists to the city.

According to the couple, with a vision to revive, conserve, and celebrate India’s cultural treasures, Sangamam bridges the gap between the past and present, bringing together artists, artisans, and audiences from across the country in a spirit of respect, learning, and continuity.