As October rolls in, Jodhpur’s famed Mehrangarh Fort will once again come alive with folk music from all corners of the globe. Countries like Bhutan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Spain will showcase their musical heritage alongside local artists from Rajasthan. The 18th edition of the Jodhpur RIFF promises five days of captivating performances, midnight jams, and dawn concerts to celebrate these vibrant traditions.
Divya Bhatia, director of Jodhpur RIFF, notes, “For nearly two decades, the festival has aimed to enhance the spirit of innovation. Music is a living conversation across time and space.” This year emphasizes deeper listening and connecting with both the past and present through music.
Expect to see celebrated artists like Lakha Khan, a master of the Sindhi Sarangi, and Sawan Khan from the Manganiyar community. Syrian saxophonist Basel Rajoub and devotional singer Mahesaram Meghwal are also set to perform. Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur highlighted the unique skill of Rajasthan’s folk musicians, noting their rich lineage and evolving art forms. “Jodhpur RIFF aims to provide a world stage for our folk traditions,” he said.
The festival coincides with Sharad Purnima, the brightest full moon of the year. Highlights will include tabla performances by Pandit Satish Vyas and Bhutanese music by Sonam Dorji. Rajasthani percussion instruments like dholak and khartal will merge with Colombian beats and jazz influences, creating a unique musical fusion.
The lineup also features Hindustani classical vocalist Ashwini Bhide Deshpande and performers from various countries, such as Polish artist Karolina Cicha and Uzbek singer Gulzoda Khudoynazarova. The festival not only entertains but also plays a crucial role in supporting Rajasthani folk musicians year-round, creating jobs and bridging traditional and modern music.
Recent studies show that folk music festivals can significantly boost local economies. For instance, communities hosting such events experience increased tourism and cultural exchange. This makes events like Jodhpur RIFF not just celebrations of art but also vital for local development.
With the world tuning in, Jodhpur RIFF offers a chance to appreciate the dynamic and evolving tapestry of music. This blend of cultures and the emphasis on preserving traditions while innovating is what keeps the festival relevant and exciting. As audiences gather to enjoy these performances, they become part of a living history that connects past and present through the power of music.
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Jodhpur RIFF, Rajasthan International Folk Festival, Mehrangarh Fort, folk music festival, world music, Rajasthani folk, Sharad Purnima
