Muthamizh Vizha
முத்தமிழ் விழா
The festival of the three Tamils — Iyal (literature), Isai (music), and Naadagam (drama). Muthamizh Vizha showcases traditional folk arts taught here in Minnesota by visiting master artists from Tamil Nadu, and is free to MNTS members.
This year
Dates for the next Muthamizh Vizha are being finalized — watch the events calendar and the newsletter for the announcement.
What happens
- Traditional folk arts on stage: oyilattam, karagam, bharatham, parai, silambattam, and thavil-nayanam ensembles.
- Master artists visit from Tamil Nadu to train Minnesota students in the months before the festival.
- A pattimandram — the classic Tamil debate, argued with wit before a live audience.
- Free entry for MNTS members.
Current year edition
2026
Previous editions
Current year gallery
2026
Previous year galleries
FAQ
- What does Muthamizh mean?
- Muthamizh means the three Tamils — Iyal (literature), Isai (music), and Naadagam (drama). The festival is built around all three.
- Can my child learn these folk arts?
- Yes. MNTS runs folk-art workshops through the year — thavil and nayanam, parai, and various dance forms — often taught by the visiting master artists. Workshops are a membership benefit.
- Do I need a membership?
- Entry is free for MNTS members, and membership is mandatory for anyone performing on stage. Performers under 18 must be covered by a Family membership.