Inside Kalai, a new festival that celebrates Chettinad’s art, architecture, and craft traditions

Kalai, a new festival in Chettinad, brings together heritage homes, expert-led walks, temple tours and craft experiences to celebrate the region’s art and architecture

The last few years have seen a revival of Tamil Nadu’s tourism hotspots, Chettinad in particular. This, courtesy of festivals like the annual The Chettinad Heritage & Cultural Festival, culinary tours, architectural initiatives in the region, and more. Now, this list gets another addition by way of Kalai, a Chettinad Art and Architecture Festival that launches this April.

The Lotus Palace Chettinad | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Curated by The Lotus Palace Chettinad in collaboration with a few of Chettinad’s most iconic heritage properties such as The Bangala, Visalam, Chidambara Vilas, Chettinad Mansion and Saratha Vilas, “Kalai was born from a vision to celebrate and preserve Chettinad’s legacy through immersive, deeply rooted cultural experiences,” says Priya Paul, chairperson, Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels. “My connection with Chettinad goes back over a decade, long before I envisioned a hotel here. I was drawn to its stories, architectural grandeur, and extraordinary craftsmanship. To me, Chettinad offers travellers a chance to discover its nuanced historical narratives and meaningful cultural experiences that can shape the future of tourism,” she adds.

A weaver in Chettinad | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

“The idea for Kalai grew organically from Suvai, our food-focussed festival held in July last year,” says Kathiravan Karunanithi, hotel manager, The Lotus Palace Chettinad. “While guests deeply enjoyed the culinary experiences, what truly captivated them was the architecture, craftsmanship, and artistic detailing of the spaces they explored across Chettinad,” explains Kathiravan, adding that it is this response that sparked the vision for Kalai — a festival dedicated to showcasing the region’s art and architecture through curated, immersive experiences.

The Lotus Palace Chettinad | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement