RED FM, in its mission to bridge cultural divides through entertainment, has successfully concluded the 7th edition of its flagship cultural festival, ‘South Side Story’. The two-day event, held at the KD Jadhav Wrestling Stadium in New Delhi on August 30 and 31, 2025, attracted a massive crowd of over 12,000 attendees, celebrating the rich music, food, art, and traditions of Southern India.
The festival was more than just a music event; it was a holistic cultural experience. Attendees were treated to a diverse lineup of artists, blending traditional and contemporary sounds. Day one saw captivating performances from Carnatic maestro T.M. Krishna, indie artist Job Kurian, and the folk-fusion acts of Aattam & Bhadra Rajin. A major highlight was Padma Bhushan awardee Shobana’s North India stage debut, where she seamlessly wove together Bharatanatyam and cinematic artistry. The evening concluded with an electrifying performance by the Carnatic rock band Avial.
Day two kept the energy high with a bold and contemporary lineup. The fierce all-women hip-hop collective Wild Wild Women, the melodic Sooraj Santhosh, the electrifying Thaikkudam Bridge, and the iconic Raghu Dixit Project ensured a grand finale that showcased the evolving cultural landscape of the South.
Beyond the music, the festival was a feast for the senses. Audiences indulged in a traditional 20+ dish Onam Sadhya and explored a variety of curated food and beverage pop-ups. Art installations, literature corners, and cultural showcases added depth to the experience, making ‘South Side Story’ a true celebration of community.
Nisha Narayanan, Director & COO of RED FM and Magic FM, highlighted the festival’s purpose. “South Side Story is more than just a music festival; it’s a vibrant celebration of art, culture, literature, cuisine, and community,” she said. Narayanan noted that the festival has grown from an initial audience of 1,500 to over 12,000, solidifying its position as a key cultural property for the network and a beloved event in Delhi.
The success of ‘South Side Story’ underscores RED FM’s “Nat-Local” strategy, which aims to be nationally present while celebrating local culture. By transcending regional boundaries and bringing diverse art forms to a wider audience, the festival has become a significant cultural bridge between the North and South.
Key Highlights:
- Record-Breaking Attendance: The 7th edition of RED FM’s ‘South Side Story’ festival saw a record turnout of over 12,000 attendees over two days in New Delhi.
- Diverse Cultural Showcase: The event celebrated Southern culture with a rich blend of music, food, art, and literature, featuring performances from artists spanning Carnatic, rock, folk, and hip-hop genres.
- Star-Studded Lineup: The festival’s artists included renowned names like T.M. Krishna, Raghu Dixit Project, and Thaikkudam Bridge, with a special highlight being Padma Bhushan awardee Shobana’s North India stage debut.
- Beyond Music: The event offered attendees an immersive experience with a 20+ dish Onam Sadhya, curated food stalls, and cultural installations, making it a comprehensive celebration of Southern traditions.