WHAM Festival Celebrates Legacy Of India’s Women Musicians In Bengaluru

Bengaluru is hosting the WHAM 2026, a month-long cultural festival dedicated to celebrating the contributions and legacy of women in Indian music.

Organised by the Indian Music Experience Museum, the festival runs from March 20 to April 5 and brings together performances, exhibitions, film screenings, and community-led experiences that spotlight women’s voices across genres and generations.

Positioned around Women’s History Month, WHAM 2026 aims to reframe narratives within India’s music ecosystem by highlighting stories that have historically remained underrepresented. The festival not only celebrates iconic figures but also encourages deeper engagement with their artistic journeys and cultural impact.

Programming includes curated sessions such as guided walks exploring the legacy of legendary musicians like Annapurna Devi, alongside discussions on musical heritage, mentorship, and evolving traditions in Indian classical and contemporary music.

Through its multidisciplinary approach, WHAM 2026 underscores the central role women have played in shaping Indian music, while also creating space for new conversations around visibility, recognition, and inclusion in the industry.