Jodhpur RIFF 2024 is set to bring together over 280 exceptional roots music performers from across the world, India, and Rajasthan, in the iconic Mehrangarh Fort. From October 16th to 20th, audiences will be inspired by performances in one of the most majestic settings in the world.
Mehrangarh, a 15th-century red sandstone fort perched on a cliff, was described by Rudyard Kipling as “the work of giants” and by Aldous Huxley as a place where “one hears as the gods must hear from Olympus.” This historic venue will be the stage for world-renowned musicians, including rising stars and legendary performers, delivering an unforgettable musical experience.
In its 17th edition, the festival’s lineup features a rich blend of international and Indian artists. Highlights include French electronica artist Éric Mouquet, co-founder of the Grammy-winning Deep Forest project, Rajasthani folk legends like the Manganiyars, Kerala’s Kutiyattam maestro Kapila Venu, Norwegian award-winning group GABBA, and Sona Mohapatra, one of the country’s leading singer-songwriters. Rajasthani roots group SAZ, Estonian folk sensation Puuluup, and celebrated Hindustani vocalist Barnali Chattopadhyay are also part of this stellar roster.
HH Maharaja Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur, the festival’s Chief Patron, emphasizes the global relevance of Rajasthani folk music, noting, “Jodhpur RIFF showcases our folk artists’ ability to stand alongside the best in the world. The festival exists not only to provide a platform for these artists but also to create opportunities for international collaborations and exchange.”
Festival Director Divya Bhatia reflects on the broader vision of the event: “For 17 years, Jodhpur RIFF has led the Indian roots music scene, bringing together dance, theatre, and music in ways that transcend traditional genres. This year, we aim to celebrate our living, musical heritage.”
The festival coincides with Sharad Purnima, a time when the Mehrangarh Fort transforms into a magical space for music lovers to experience performances that cannot be found anywhere else. But Jodhpur RIFF’s impact stretches far beyond this four-day event. Over the past decade and a half, it has played a vital role in supporting Rajasthan’s folk artists, nurturing young talent, and fostering collaborations between Indian and international musicians.
This year’s festival will feature captivating collaborations, such as Rajasthani group SAZ teaming up with kathak dancer Tarini Tripathi, and performances that blend genres like Kutiyattam and Jaipur Tamasha. The lineup also includes Mauritian multi-instrumentalist Emlyn Marimutu, Zimbabwean-American fusion artist Louis Mhlanga, and South Korean ensemble Gray by Silver, whose music spans classical, jazz, and folk influences.
Last year, Jodhpur RIFF focused on Rajasthani percussion. This year, it expands its scope to include Congolese drummer Elli Miller-Maboungu, ghatam masters Sukanya Ramgopal and Giridhar Udupa, and Azerbaijani percussion ensemble Natiq Shirinov Rhythm Group. The festival will culminate in the RIFF Rustle, a spontaneous grand finale on October 19th, where musicians from across the festival will come together for an impromptu jam session, filling the night air with a fusion of rhythms and melodies that echo far beyond the fort’s walls.
Jodhpur RIFF 2024 promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of roots music, cultural exchange, and the vibrant spirit of Rajasthan.
