Sabhas

Sabha (Sanskrit sabhā) denotes an assembly, gathering, council, or court. The term is found across Indian languages and literatures and historically referred to public or royal gatherings as well as a hall or place of meeting. In political life, sabha elements appear as formal assemblies; in modern India, the word appears in the names of legislative houses such as the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

In cultural life, sabha often designates a venue or organization that arranges concerts and performances, especially of Indian classical music and dance. A sabha may host lectures, workshops, or religious events. In metropolitan centers, many sabhas run seasonal schedules, and in Chennai’s famous December Music Season, dozens of sabhas present programs during the month.

Sabhas vary in size and scope. They range from temple or community groups to city-wide networks that coordinate programs, venues, and artists. Many operate as non-profit societies or trusts and use the term sabha in their name to emphasize the gathering and collaborative nature of the arts.