Jodhpur: Jodhpur RIFF 2025, held from 2nd to 4th October at Mehrangarh Fort, brought together global, Indian, and Rajasthani music legends to celebrate roots music. Artists from Colombia, Poland, Finland, UK, Portugal, Bhutan, and India performed alongside local Rajasthani musicians, creating an unforgettable musical experience under the year’s brightest full moon.

The festival began with a free Bal Mela for school children, showcasing folk arts like Kathputli, Ghoomer, Kachchi Ghodi, Bhapang, and Bakri ki Mashal. Young audiences enjoyed performances by budding Rajasthani musicians and a traditional circus, offering an engaging cultural experience beyond digital screens.

City Concerts at Jaswant Thada allowed locals and tourists to experience global music, from Uzbekistan, Finland, Canada, and Madagascar, alongside Indian Lavani, Kalbeliyas, and Manganiyar performances. Dawn concerts featured legends like Mahesaram Meghwal and Sonam Dorji from Bhutan, bringing spiritual and folk music to life, while immersive experiences like En Route offered a personal journey through the fort’s sounds and streets.

Dance and music bootcamps introduced participants to Lavani and Kathak, guided by renowned artists Aditi Bhagwat and Tarini Tripathi. The festival highlighted the talent of Rajasthani masters like Lakha Khan Manganiyar and Barkat Khan, and collaborative performances like SAZ with jazz and global musicians reinvented folk traditions.

Evening concerts fused global and local sounds, including Fado by Helder Moutinho, Latin jazz by Rosa Cecilia, Sicilian music by Ars Nova Napoli, and Afro-Colombian beats by Killabeatmaker, keeping audiences dancing into the night.

Jodhpur RIFF 2025 successfully blended tradition and innovation, connecting global music with Rajasthani roots, inspiring audiences, and creating a cultural festival remembered long after its final note.