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India’s diverse and vibrant culture has given rise to several outstanding music festivals, showcasing an array of genres and artists. The festivals not only provide pulsating live performances but also offer breathtaking locations and a chance to experience the warm hospitality and local flavors of Indian culture. This article highlights some of the best music festivals in India, and if you’re a music enthusiast, you won’t want to miss them.
One of the most renowned festivals is the Jodhpur Rajasthan International Folk Festival, which takes place at the majestic Mehrangarh Fort. Timed to coincide with the brightest full moon night of the year, this international folk festival is an excellent example of India’s exceptional roots music scene. With attendees coming from different parts of the world, the festival provides a platform for collaborations between Indian and international artists.
Past line-ups at this festival include prominent acts like Kailash Kher, Terrance Simien, and the Zydeco Experience, among others. The combination of the historical backdrop and incredible music make this festival a unique experience you won’t want to miss.
Another must-attend festival is the Sunburn Festival in Goa. As India’s premier electronic music brand, Sunburn has been organizing the largest 3-day electronic music festivals in Asia since 2007. Held at picturesque locations in the beach paradise of Goa, this spectacle attracts thousands of music fans, eager to enjoy their favorite electronic music artists and DJs.
With previous years featuring a line-up of international superstars like Martin Garrix, David Guetta, and Afrojack, the Sunburn Festival consistently delivers an unforgettable experience in the world of electronic music. The stunning location, electrifying atmosphere, and remarkable performances make this an event you should definitely plan to attend.
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Dance Music Festivals In India
India is home to several amazing dance music festivals that cater to fans of electronic dance music (EDM) and other genres. This section will introduce you to three of the most popular and unique festivals in India: Sunburn Festival, Vh1 Supersonic, and Enchanted Valley Carnival.
Sunburn Festival
Sunburn Festival is Asia’s largest music festival and a prominent event in the Indian music scene. The festival takes place annually in Goa, typically in late December. Sunburn attracts thousands of visitors worldwide and offers a multi-day experience full of music, art, and adventure sports.
The festival has showcased several world-famous artists such as The Chainsmokers and a host of renowned Indian talents, providing a perfect fusion of local and international acts. In addition to EDM, the festival also features techno and other genres of electronic music.
Unique Aspects:
- Diverse lineup of international and Indian artists
- Attractive location in Goa, with its beautiful beaches
- Adventure sports and recreational activities available
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: The Chainsmokers, Martin Garrix, KSHMR
- Venue: Vagator, Goa
- Dates: Late December
Vh1 Supersonic
Vh1 Supersonic, another massive music festival in India, is held annually in Pune. Known for its vibrant stages and top-notch lineups, Vh1 Supersonic features both international and Indian artists across various electronic music genres, making it a must-attend event for EDM enthusiasts.
Apart from the music, visitors can also explore art installations, flea markets, and indulge in delectable food. The festival usually occurs in February and lasts for three days.
Unique Aspects:
- Eclectic mix of electronic music genres
- Art installations and flea markets
- Strong focus on Indian talents
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: Marshmello, Diplo, Nucleya
- Venue: Mahalaxmi Lawns, Pune
- Dates: February
Enchanted Valley Carnival
Enchanted Valley Carnival (EVC) is India’s first multigenre music festival, held annually at the Aamby Valley City near Lonavala, Maharashtra. The festival uniquely combines music, art, and camping experiences over a weekend, typically in December.
EVC hosts a diverse lineup of artists from various genres, such as EDM, indie, and Bollywood music. The festival also features adventure sports, art zones, and camping accommodations amidst the serene hills of Lonavala.
Unique Aspects:
- Multigenre music lineup
- Stunning location with camping
- Active art zones and adventure sports
Previous Highlights:
- Acts: Arijit Singh, Alan Walker, Flo Rida
- Venue: Aamby Valley City, Maharashtra
- Dates: December
Rock Music Festivals In India
India is a land of diverse cultures and hosts numerous music festivals throughout the year. In this section, we will explore three of the best rock music festivals in India: NH7 Weekender, Ziro Festival of Music, and Ragasthan.
NH7 Weekender
The NH7 Weekender is one of India’s most popular and sought-after music festivals across Pune, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. This multi-city event showcases not only rock but also pop, indie, and folk music genres, making it an enticing experience for all music lovers.
Happening annually, the Bacardi NH7 Weekender typically takes place between October and December and lasts around two to three days. The festival attracts a large crowd, offering an unforgettable experience with its diverse line-up of artists from both India and around the world. Some of the previous acts include Steven Wilson, Megadeth, A.R. Rahman, and many more.
What makes NH7 Weekender unique is the blend of camping, art installations, and workshops that cater to different interests, ensuring a wholesome experience for everyone. If you’re a fan of rock music, you don’t want to miss out on the high-energy performances and vibrant atmosphere at this festival!
Ziro Festival Of Music
Nestled within the picturesque hills of Arunachal Pradesh, the Ziro Festival of Music brings together rock, folk music, and indie genres in an intimate setting. Showcasing Northeast bands and international artists, the festival creates a cultural melting pot amidst the scenic beauty of Northeast India.
The Ziro Music Festival generally takes place in September and lasts for four days. With a line-up of talented artists, the festival witnesses an ever-increasing footfall, including music enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape in nature.
One of the main highlights of this festival is the opportunity to camp under the stars, surrounded by lush green landscapes. The blend of captivating music, vibrant culture, and breathtaking surroundings makes the Ziro Festival an unforgettable experience and a must-attend event for rock music enthusiasts.
Ragasthan
Set amidst the majestic sand dunes of Jaisalmer in the Thar Desert, Ragasthan provides a unique blend of rock, pop, and electronic music genres. This enchanting festival typically takes place in February during the full moon phase of Sharad Purnima, making it a magical experience for attendees.
Ragasthan spans across three days and attracts a wide range of music lovers, owing to its diverse line-up of rock bands and independent artists. Previous festival acts have included some talented Northeast bands, offering attendees a chance to immerse themselves in the rich musical tapestry of India.
The festival’s uniqueness lies in its surreal location, where attendees can indulge in camping amidst the sand dunes, bonfires, and camels, all while witnessing their favorite bands playing live. The stunning backdrop, captivating performances, and mesmerizing ambiance make Ragasthan a must-visit rock music festival in India.
Jazz Music Festivals In India
Mood Indigo
Mood Indigo is an annual music festival held in Mumbai, India. Known for showcasing a diverse blend of music genres such as jazz, indie music, reggae, and EDM, it attracts thousands of music enthusiasts and food lovers every year. The festival usually takes place in December and lasts for several days, offering attendees ample opportunity to soak in the vibes and explore the bustling city of Mumbai.
One of the key reasons to attend Mood Indigo is its unique fusion of various music styles. Over the years, the festival has hosted impressive lineups featuring both local and international artists. Some of the previous years’ acts include renowned jazz artists, reggae bands, and EDM performers. In addition to the fabulous music, attendees can look forward to indulging in delicious food from various cuisines while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Attending Mood Indigo is more than just a musical experience – it’s also an opportunity to explore Mumbai’s rich culture and heritage. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience; plan your trip to Mood Indigo today!
GoMAD Festival
GoMAD Festival is another remarkable celebration of jazz, fusion, indie, and reggae music. Held in January in the mesmerizing city of Jaipur, the festival boasts a diverse lineup of artists, making it a must-visit event for music lovers. In addition to music, the GoMAD Festival offers attendees an unforgettable travel experience as they explore the royal pink city, taking in its majestic forts and palaces.
The festival’s unique combination of music genres, coupled with a beautiful backdrop, has made it increasingly popular amongst not just the Indian audience but also international visitors. GoMAD typically lasts for three days and has featured remarkable acts in previous editions, including top local and global jazz musicians, reggae bands, and EDM artists.
While attending the GoMAD Festival, you’ll get to experience the sublime beauty of the serene mountains, mouthwatering food, and a rich cultural heritage. If you’re craving a unique festival experience, look no further: GoMAD is your perfect choice!
Folk Music Festivals In India
Jodhpur RIFF
The Jodhpur Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF) is an annual celebration of traditional Indian music, dance, and culture. Held at the historic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, the festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. With an average attendance of thousands, the event takes place during the full moon in October, typically lasting for five days.
At Jodhpur RIFF, you’ll find a vast array of performances and events, including qawwali with the Warsi Brothers, captivating melodies by the Manganiyar community of Marwar, and contemporary renditions by the Indian band Bombay Brass. The festival also features Khasi folk musician Amabel Susngi, European Sinti Gypsy group Tabor, and many other talented artists.
In addition to the incredible live performances, Jodhpur RIFF offers a unique experience for children with a special morning of storytelling, music, and dance. With its breathtaking setting amidst the ancient Mehrangarh Fort, this festival is not only a must-attend for fans of folk music but also for those who wish to soak up the vibrant culture of Rajasthan.
Mahindra Blues Festival
The Mahindra Blues Festival is a spectacular event that celebrates the soul-stirring music genre of the blues. Held annually in Mumbai, the festival attracts tens of thousands of music aficionados from around the world. Established in 2011, the event usually spans across two days in February.
Over the years, the Mahindra Blues Festival has hosted a star-studded lineup of international and Indian artists, such as Buddy Guy, Keb’ Mo’, Shemekia Copeland, and our very own Soulmate, an Indian blues band from Shillong. The festival has also witnessed exceptional performances from emerging Indian blues bands and musicians, giving them a chance to showcase their talent on a grand stage.
Apart from enthralling live performances, the Mahindra Blues Festival offers a unique opportunity for aspiring musicians to participate in masterclasses and workshops conducted by renowned artists. This event is an absolute must-attend for blues enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the vibrant music culture of Mumbai.
Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of folk and blues music at these two standout festivals in India: Jodhpur RIFF and Mahindra Blues Festival. Each offers its unique charm and showcases the diverse musical landscape of Indian culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend these incredible events!
Pop Music Festivals In India
Holi Cow Festival
Holi Cow Festival is a vibrant and unique music festival that takes place in India’s capital, Delhi. The festival is organized during the Holi Festival, which usually occurs in March. Celebrating the rich culture of Rajasthan, it features a wide range of music genres, including pop music, EDM, techno, folk, and fusion.
This unforgettable event boasts an exciting lineup of local and international talent. In the past, performers like Baba Sehgal, Afrojack, Dimitri Vegas, and Like Mike have graced its stages. Spanning for an entire day, the festival attracts a large crowd of music enthusiasts seeking to indulge in the festive atmosphere and incredible tunes.
Besides the music, Holi Cow Festival also offers breathtaking art installations, live painting, and delicious food for attendees to enjoy. The festival showcases the perfect blend of ancient Indian culture and modern music vibes, making it an essential destination for anyone looking to explore India’s pop music scene.
Sula Fest
Sula Fest is an annual extravaganza held at the picturesque vineyards of Sula in Nasik, India. This three-day music festival takes place in February and boasts a fantastic lineup of talent from various genres, including pop, EDM, and world music.
Sula Fest has played host to notable international artists like Bloc Party, Infected Mushroom, and Jungle in previous editions, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The festival is famous for its wine-tasting events, allowing attendees to sample Sula wines while grooving to the music.
Combining the elegance of a vineyard experience with the energy of live music, Sula Fest offers visitors a one-of-a-kind, immersive event that caters to various tastes. Its prime location, diverse lineup, and exceptional culinary offerings make it a must-visit destination for pop music fans traveling to India.
