Lamakaan, Hyderabad’s vibrant cultural space, marks 15 incredible years of promoting arts, dialogue, and inclusivity. From theater to intellectual debates, discover how this Banjara Hills landmark has become a cherished hub for creativity and community engagement.
Lamakaan, Hyderabad’s iconic cultural hub, proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. Established in March 2010 by Ashhar Farhan, Humera Ahmed, Biju Mathew, and Elahe Hiptoola, Lamakaan has steadfastly promoted open dialogue, artistic expression, and cultural diversity.
A Sanctuary for the Arts
Nestled in Banjara Hills, Lamakaan has become a cornerstone of Hyderabad’s cultural landscape. The center hosts a myriad of events, including theater performances, film screenings, book launches, art exhibitions, and musical concerts. Notably, it has featured performances by esteemed artists such as the Warsi Brothers and Ustad Adnan Salem, enriching the city’s artistic tapestry.
Fostering Intellectual Discourse
Beyond the arts, Lamakaan serves as a platform for intellectual engagement, regularly organizing seminars, discussions, and debates on pressing social issues. This commitment to fostering critical thinking has attracted a diverse audience, from students to professionals, all seeking a space for meaningful conversation.
Community-Centric Initiatives
Lamakaan’s inclusive ethos is evident in its community-driven initiatives. The center encourages individuals and groups to propose and conduct events, ensuring a dynamic and participatory cultural calendar. This approach has cultivated a sense of ownership among Hyderabad’s residents, making Lamakaan a true people’s space.
Overcoming Challenges
In December 2015, Lamakaan faced a closure threat due to complaints alleging public nuisance. The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) issued a notice citing issues such as traffic congestion and disturbances to local residents. However, the overwhelming support from the community, including an online petition garnering approximately 3,000 signatures, led to the withdrawal of the closure notice. This incident underscored Lamakaan’s significance as a cherished public space in Hyderabad.
15th Anniversary Celebrations
To commemorate its 15th year, Lamakaan has curated a series of special events scheduled from January 17th to 19th, 2025. The celebrations include:
- Untamed Baataan: A conversation with Zaynab Ali, a renowned Hyderabadi podcaster, hosted by National Award-winning singer Anuj Gurwara.
- Khumar by Adnan: A ghazal night featuring Ustad Adnan Salem, celebrating the works of poet Khumar Barabankvi.
- Hashiye Zindagi Ke: A theatrical performance by the group Sifar, presenting a play written by Nadira Babber.
- Kathak Yatra: A traditional Kathak dance performance led by Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Mangala Bhatt.
- Talat Mahmood @ 100: A tribute to the legendary singer Talat Mahmood, featuring a discussion with journalist Sahar Zaman.
- Aradhana in Concert: A morning Khayal concert by Hyderabad’s esteemed vocalist, Aradhana Karhade.
- Book Launch: Discussion on the book “Remembering, Reconciling, and Forgiving,” focusing on the fall of Hyderabad, edited by Gita Ramaswamy, Anant Maringanti, and Mohammed Ayub.
- Reel Se Real Tak: A conversation with filmmaker Vijay Krishna Acharya, exploring his journey from television to blockbuster films.
These events exemplify Lamakaan’s dedication to promoting diverse cultural expressions and fostering community engagement.
As Lamakaan embarks on its 16th year, it remains committed to being an open, inclusive, and progressive space. By continually adapting to the evolving cultural landscape, Lamakaan aims to inspire future generations of artists, thinkers, and citizens, reinforcing its role as a vital public space in Hyderabad.#Hydkhabar
About The Author
Ahssanuddin Haseeb