New Delhi: New Delhi witnessed a unique cultural evening on 13 December 2025, as Songs of the Stone: The First Chapter brought the Qutub Minar into a new and thoughtful cultural dialogue. Organised by Inkpot India, the after-dark experience transformed the historic monument into a space for listening, reflection and shared cultural engagement.

Held in association with Delhi Tourism and the Archaeological Survey of India, and co-presented by Max Estates, the event was designed as an intimate interaction between music, architecture and atmosphere. Rather than treating the monument as a backdrop, the experience allowed the presence, scale and acoustics of the Qutub Minar to guide the evening.

Curated by Simar Malhotra, Founder of Inkpot India, the programme featured a sitar performance by Mehtab Ali Niazi and his ensemble. The music was specially developed to respond to the monument’s acoustics, blending classical traditions with the unique soundscape of the site. The evening began with an address by Eric Chopra, author and founder of Itihasology, who spoke about India’s living heritage and the cultural history of the Mehrauli region.

Designed to engage all five senses, the experience integrated sound, sight, scent, taste and touch, creating a deeply immersive environment. The audience, a curated group of cultural patrons, diplomats, artists and thinkers, experienced the monument in a calm and reflective setting.

Rooted in the belief that heritage is best understood through lived experiences, Songs of the Stone aims to build meaningful connections with India’s historic spaces. Following its debut at the Qutub Minar, the series will continue across other heritage sites, exploring stories through sound, space and music.