ASIA-PACIFIC

Thrissur

Apr 29

Thrissur Pooram Elephant Festival The non-stop 36-hour celebration begins at six in the morning with pomp and vigour. The temple festival is about paying respect to the Hindu God, Shiva. The parade of elephants who are decorated in bells, colours and feathers is the main attraction. A ceremonial flag hoisting takes place seven days before the main day of the festival. Fireworks are a constant feature of the celebrations.

thrissurpooramfestival.com

Madurai

May 1-14

Chithirai Festival One of the biggest festivals of South India, this is a re-enactment of the wedding of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva) to Goddess Meenakshi (Lord Vishnu’s sister). Legend believes that Lord Vishnu attended the wedding on a golden horse.

maduraimeenakshi.org

Singapore

until May 3

Singapore Art Museum Southeast Asian Film Festival Its fifth year will be marked with an exciting presentation of the latest and most attractive cinematic expression from the region at the Moving Image Gallery. Adding diversity to the festival will be a showing of independent films by veteran and emerging directors, as well as post-screening discussions. sistic.com.sg

Dubai

May 22

Emirates NBD Classics presents Sol Gabatta Argentinian cellist Sol Gabetta will perform in Dubai for the first time at the Emirates NBD Classics – Season 4. She won her first competition at the age of 10 and has grown to bag international awards, including three ECHO Klassik Awards. ductac.org

Hong Kong

May 22-24

Affordable Art Fair Artists from world over will be featured by more than 130 gallerists at this celebration of art. Interactive activities will encourage visitor participation in an innovative and exciting manner. affordableartfair.com