Vaarta 2026 · May 30

Indian Voices, New Ground.

Experience the vibrant tapestry of Indian and South Asian cultural heritage through our three signature programs: literature, fashion, and photography.

Vaarta 2026 Begins In
00
Days
00
Hours
00
Minutes
Vaarta Literature Festival | May 30, 2026Prasang Fashion Show | May 20, 2026Varnam Photography Exhibition | August 10-12, 2026Early Bird Registration Now OpenVaarta Literature Festival | May 30, 2026Prasang Fashion Show | May 20, 2026Varnam Photography Exhibition | August 10-12, 2026Early Bird Registration Now Open
Our Programs

Three Pillars of Cultural Excellence

VAARTA
Literature Festival

VAARTA

A landmark event showcasing India's rich storytelling traditions with renowned authors, poets, and thought leaders from around the world.

  • Panel discussions with bestselling authors
  • Poetry readings and performances
  • Book launches and signings
  • Literary workshops
Discover Vaarta
PRASANG
Fashion Innovation

PRASANG

Vibrant runway shows featuring traditional and contemporary Indian fashion from top designers, celebrating textile heritage and innovation.

  • Designer runway presentations
  • Traditional craft showcases
  • Emerging designer spotlights
  • Fashion networking events
Discover Prasang
VARNAM
Photography & Wildlife

VARNAM

A space where images become stories and perspectives come alive, bringing together creators who capture culture, wildlife, and the world through the lens.

  • Photography exhibitions
  • Wildlife conservation talks
  • Photo workshops and masterclasses
  • Visual storytelling sessions
Discover Varnam
Schedule

Upcoming Events Calendar

30
May
2026
Vaarta · Literature

Vaarta Literature Festival

Opening ceremony featuring keynote address by renowned author. Panel discussions on contemporary Indian literature, storytelling traditions, poetry sessions, book launches, and writing workshops.

9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Chicago Cultural Center
20
May
2026
Prasang · Fashion

Prasang Fashion Innovation Show

Spectacular runway presentations showcasing both traditional Indian textiles and contemporary designer collections. Fashion networking mixer to follow.

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Navy Pier Grand Ballroom
10
August
2026
Varnam · Photography

Varnam Photography Exhibition Opening

Grand opening of our annual photography exhibition featuring works from renowned photographers capturing Indian culture and wildlife.

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Art Institute of Chicago
Memories

Past Event Highlights

2026 Lineup

Featured Speakers & Artists

Priya Sharma

Priya Sharma

Bestselling Author

National Book Award winner and acclaimed novelist exploring Indian diaspora narratives.

Raj Mehta

Raj Mehta

Fashion Designer

Innovative designer blending traditional Indian textiles with contemporary silhouettes.

Anjali Desai

Anjali Desai

Wildlife Photographer

Award-winning photographer documenting India's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Arjun Patel

Arjun Patel

Poet & Performer

Contemporary poet exploring themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage.

Proudly Supported By

INDIA CULTURALTRUST
Chai & CoBEVERAGES
DESI ARTSFOUNDATION
RANGOLIMEDIA
SPICE ROUTEVentures
MIDWESTHERITAGE BANK

Be Part of the Story

Join us in celebrating the richness of Indian arts and culture. Register now for our 2026 events and become part of our vibrant community.

Register for Events