Udaipur World Music Festival 2025 kicks off with folk music, Bollywood beats and global rhythms

Udaipur World Music Festival 2025 kicked off at Gandhi Ground in Udaipur with the performance of renowned music artists from India and abroad. The three-day festival began with Indian folk songs, Bollywood tunes and global rhythms. Entrance to this festival, conceptualised by Sahar in collaboration with Hindustan Zinc Limited and the Tourism Department of the Government of Rajasthan, is free. The event saw world-class music and the audience’s journey of music across cultures, with every music lover present there enjoying the performances in tune and rhythm.

The evening began with Yaar Mohammad Langa and his Sarangi Orchestra, which introduced the folk traditions of Rajasthan and the melodious tones of Sarangi. Bringing a North African flavour to the stage, Algerian blues-rock band Tiwiza gave an energetic live performance influenced by Berber and Chaabi influences. Led by Sofiane Belaid, the blend of rock and desert blues introduced the audience to the storytelling traditions of the Maghreb.

Adding to Bollywood music, Kanika Kapoor and popular pop duo Sukriti and Prakriti Kakar enthralled the audience with their distinctive blend of filmi and contemporary pop music, lifting the spirits even on a cold night. The highlight of the evening was an electrifying Afropop performance by Grammy Award winner Dobet Gnahoré. His impressive stage presence, dynamic dance moves and energetic rhythms enthralled the audience. Music lovers got their feet dancing to the seamless blend of global and Indian influences from Tiwiza, Dobet Gnahoré and Rajasthan’s original Sarangi Orchestra.

Speaking at the inauguration of the festival, Sanjeev Bhargava, Founder-Director, Sehar said, “Day 1 truly showcased the cultural diversity that we strive to achieve through this festival. It showcased a seamless blend of global and Indian influences such as Tivija, Dobetgnahore and Rajasthan’s original Sarangi Orchestra. Bringing together various musical worlds on one platform is what makes our festival unique.”

Speaking at the inauguration, Arun Mishra, Chief Executive Officer, Hindustan Zinc Limited said, “Music and culture have the unique ability to unite diverse perspectives in a beautiful rhythm. With global music being combined with Rajasthani folk music, it is already evident that Hindustan Zinc and Vedanta promote music, art and culture by providing opportunities and platforms to young talents. This collaboration reflects our commitment to transform Zinc City – Udaipur into a global cultural capital brimming with creativity and music.” We are very proud to see this initiative grow into a major global music event, bringing together talents from different countries and enchanting Udaipur audiences.