Swagatham! The spirit of Onam is taking over the capital this August. With restaurants bringing their grand festive spreads and temples adorned, the festivities don’t stop here. Neither do you have to travel south to soak in the celebrations. RED FM’s flagship cultural festival brings the perfect South Indian getaway with South Side Story. Returning to the capital for its 8th edition, South Side Story is taking over New Delhi’s KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium from August 29 to August 30th, 2026. Additionally, the festival brings the best of cinema, art, music, culture, food, and live performances to this two-day extravaganza.
South Side Story 2026 – New Delhi
A modest idea that started with kaapi and conversation, Red FM’s South Side Story has today become a crucial reunion for South Indians living far from home. Not only is it a need for South Indian communities, but it is also a way to share culture with fellow North Indians who want to experience the South. Spanning literature, visual arts, regional cinema, and legendary culinary spreads, the two-day extravaganza is a cross-cultural celebration designed for anyone curious about the sounds and soul of the South.
A star studded lineup
Music forms the beating heart of the festival. The 2026 edition features an eclectic mix of legendary performers, classical dancers, rock veterans, and more. This year’s edition sees acts and performances, one greater than the other. Day 1 sees back-to-back stellar performances. There is the infectious Kannada folk by The Raghu Dixit Project, Malayali rapper Baby Jean, and romantic pop hits by Karthik. The highlight of Day 2 is a spellbinding performance by Padma Bhusan awardee Shobana, indie favourites by Masala Coffee, rock trademark by Thaikkudam Bridge, and more. Check out the full line-up here. Nevertheless, the South Side story goes far beyond the setlist.
Beyond the stage: art, food, and more
The festival in collaboration with Oxford bookstore, and the Kerala Literature Festival brings literature lounges for storytelling, discussions, and film screenings that celebrated southern cinema’s rich legacy. Whereas, visual installations of traditional art forms showcases the rich diversity of the South. There are martial art demonstrations of Kalaripayattu and even design showcases by brands like Neytt and Rouka.
Of course, food is central to a full and wholesome experience. Beyond regular food counters serving street favourites, you can also purchase a separate pass to sit down for a traditional Onam Sadya. The Onam spread features traditional 20 dishes served on banana leaves alongside freshly brewed Karnataka coffee by artisanal roasters like Bili Hu.
Tickets
The ticket prices start at ₹ 999/- for general admission, season pass for both days. There is also the availability of the FanClub arena pass for individuals and a buddy pass for two individual. The FanClub arena pass gives you access to both the days of the festival, with special access band, fan club arena access, a complimentary beer, front stage view, and 50% off on merchandise. Moreover, there are separate tickets if you want to experience Sadya, starting at ₹899/-.
The festival brings all sort of South Indian quirkes, from snackable and superfoods to bags and wearables by South Indian brands, that you can shop here. While you wait for the fest, do check out their website for a burst of colours and get the quirky art wheel spinning.
Key Information
📅Saturday & Sunday, August 29 and August 30
⏰12 PM onwards
📍KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, New Delhi
💵₹ 999/- onwards
🎟️Book your tickets here
