The Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in Bengaluru will host “Sacred Rhythms, Living Histories of the Jogappa Community” on June 6, 2026. Organised in collaboration with Solidarity Foundation and Jogappa artists, the event will offer audiences an opportunity to engage with one of South India’s enduring cultural and spiritual traditions through music, storytelling, and dialogue.
A Living Tradition Rooted in Devotion
The Jogappas are a traditional transgender community whose identity and spiritual practices are closely linked to the worship of Goddess Yellamma. For generations, members of the community have preserved devotional traditions through oral histories, ritual practices, and performances that continue to shape cultural life across parts of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
Music, Stories and Cultural Memory
The programme will feature devotional compositions, oral narratives, and handmade musical instruments used within the Jogappa tradition. Through personal stories and performance, participating artists will share insights into their lived experiences and the cultural knowledge passed down through generations.
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Highlights of the Event
- Devotional songs dedicated to Goddess Yellamma
- Storytelling sessions based on oral histories
- Demonstrations of traditional handmade instruments
- Conversations on identity, faith, and cultural heritage
- Interactive audience engagement and discussion
Collaboration Between Community and Cultural Institutions
The event is presented by Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in partnership with Solidarity Foundation. According to the organisers, the programme seeks to bring together community knowledge and historical perspectives while encouraging meaningful conversations around gender diversity, cultural memory, and living traditions.
Visitor Information
The event will take place on June 6, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at the Museum of Art & Photography, Bengaluru. Registration is required and can be completed through the official event page. The listing currently indicates free registration for attendees.
| Event | Details |
| Title | Sacred Rhythms, Living Histories of the Jogappa Community |
| Artist / Participants | Jogappa Artists |
| Venue | Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) |
| City | Bengaluru, Karnataka |
| Date | June 6, 2026 |
| Event Time | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm |
| Organiser | Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) in collaboration with Solidarity Foundation and Jogappa artists |
| Website / Registration | https://map-india.org |
Takeaway
“Sacred Rhythms, Living Histories” offers audiences an opportunity to engage with a living cultural tradition through the voices of the Jogappa community itself. By bringing together performance, storytelling, and dialogue, the programme highlights the importance of preserving oral histories and community knowledge. The event also contributes to broader conversations around cultural diversity, inclusion, and the role of museums as spaces for public learning and exchange.
