THE JODHPUR RIFF: A FESTIVAL OF SOULFUL MUSIC AND HERITAGE

Group of Rajasthani folk dancers performing in vibrant red traditional Ghagra Choli costumes.

The Jodhpur RIFF, or Rajasthan International Folk Festival, is an annual celebration of music and art that takes place at the stunning Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, India. The festival is a vibrant showcase of traditional folk music, dance, and arts, and is strategically timed to coincide with the brightest full moon of the year in North India, known as Sharad Purnima.

This year, the festival will be held from October 2-6, 2025. During this time, the fort comes alive with the powerful sounds of Rajasthani folk singers, the rhythmic beat of drums, and musical traditions that have been passed down for centuries. It's a highly anticipated event for both locals and tourists, and for good reason—it’s an experience that is truly worth waiting for.

Wide-angle view of The Ummed Jodhpur facade in the evening, with lights glowing and the surrounding gardens enhancing the Palace Resort and Spa’s grandeur.
A suite bedroom with cosy bed and superior interior featuring a window next to the bed at The Ummed Jodhpur, Palace Resort and Spa.

For those seeking luxury accommodations during the festival, The Ummed Jodhpur Palace Resort & Spa is a great option. Located approximately 12 kilometers from Mehrangarh Fort, this majestic palace resort offers a serene and royal retreat. Guests can take advantage of seasonal offers and save by booking directly through the hotel's website. Direct bookings often include exclusive benefits such as complimentary room upgrades, discounts on food and beverages, and early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability).


History and Origins


First held in October 2007, the festival was established as a not-for-profit collaboration between the Jaipur Virasat Foundation and the Mehrangarh Museum Trust. Its initial goal was to revitalize and protect Rajasthan’s traditional folk arts, which were in danger of fading away. Today, the festival has expanded its mission. It serves as a global stage where Indian folk music meets international genres, fostering unique collaborations and cultural exchanges that are both innovative and respectful of tradition.

Why Mehrangarh Fort?

An exterior view of Mehrangarh Fort, towering majestically over the landscape, showcasing its impressive walls and intricate architectural details against the sky.

The organizers' choice of Mehrangarh Fort as the venue is no accident. The fort, which is one of Rajasthan's most iconic heritage sites, is perched high above Jodhpur, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Beyond the visual spectacle, the fort's architecture provides exceptional acoustics and an ambiance that elevates every performance. This unique setting adds to the drama and excitement of an event that is already overflowing with energy, making it the perfect location for such a profound cultural gathering.


What to Expect: Highlights of RIFF 2025

The festival is a jam-packed schedule of concerts, dawn sessions, all-night performances, workshops, interactive talks, and dance showcases. A key highlight is its ability to seamlessly blend the raw energy of local folk music with the sophistication of international music. Imagine a collaboration between a Rajasthani Manganiyar singer and a jazz saxophonist—this is the kind of unexpected and magical fusion that defines the RIFF experience.

Here is a summary of some of the confirmed artists and events for Jodhpur RIFF 2025:


Signature Collaborations & Global Beats:

 
  • RIFF Rustle: The festival's signature midnight jam returns on October 5, led by Colombian DJ Killabeatmaker and joined by Indian saxophone virtuoso Rhys Sebastian. They will orchestrate a spontaneous collaboration with traditional Rajasthani and international musicians.
  • Killabeatmaker: The pioneering Afro-Colombian DJ will also present a high-energy solo set on October 4, blending his indigenous roots with deep basslines and urban beats.
  • Layla Tazhibayeva: The virtuoso from Kazakhstan will perform with her electric kobyz, a modern reimagining of a traditional shamanic instrument, at both the dawn concert at Jaswant Thada and later at Chokelao Bagh on October 5.
  • strong>Jatayu: This four-piece ensemble from Chennai will merge the intricate rhythmic patterns of Carnatic music with jazz, funk, and rock on October 4.
  • Rosa Cecilia: The London-born singer-songwriter with Chilean-Italian roots will bring her unique blend of Latin jazz, neo-soul, and disco to the festival on October 3.
  • Karolina Cicha & Company: Hailing from Poland, this singer and multi-instrumentalist will perform her newer compositions, exploring the connections between the music of the Podlasie minorities and modern poetry on October 4.
  • Suonno D’Ajere: This quartet from Naples, Italy, will breathe new life into traditional Neapolitan songs, infusing them with jazz and blues on October 5.
  • Helder Moutinho: From Portugal, this artist will deliver a passionate performance of Fado, the nation's music of fate and longing, on October 4.
  • Ars Nova Napoli: A street band from southern Italy, they will transform the Zenana Courtyard into a lively Mediterranean alleyway with their mandolins, accordion, and tambourines on October 3.
  • Emilia Lajunen: This leading figure in Finnish folk music will bring the Nordic wind to the Rajasthani night with her five-string violin on October 3.


Traditional and Living Legends:

 
  • Lakha Khan Manganiyar: A Padma Shri awardee and one of the last living masters of the Sindhi Sarangi, his performance on October 4 will be a deep dive into the heart of Rajasthan's musical soul.
  • Ashwini Bhide Deshpande: A leading exponent of the Jaipur-Atrauli Khayal Gayaki, this Padma Shri recipient will bring her masterful vocals and emotional depth to the stage on October 3.
  • Ghewar and Darre Khan Manganiyar: These brothers and masters of the rare kamaycha instrument will perform some of the most unusual and significant tunes of the Manganiyar repertoire on October 4.
  • Dangi Sisters: Anita and Prem will showcase the distinct Maand singing tradition, carrying forward the music of the Damami community on October 5.
  • Mahesharam Meghwal Ji: The legendary national icon will once again perform his soulful, nirguni songs at the dawn concert on October 5.
  • Sonam Dorji: A celebrated Bhutanese vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, he will appear in two different settings on October 4, including an intimate talk and a performance with his group YakVibe.
  • Aditi Bhagwat: The celebrated 'Marathi mulgi' will lead a dance bootcamp on October 3, showcasing the unique blend of robustness and delicacy in the Lavani folk tradition.


UNESCO Support

The Jodhpur RIFF has the esteemed support of UNESCO, which recognizes it as a "People's Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development." This recognition stems from the festival's commitment to preserving cultural heritage while simultaneously fostering innovation through artistic collaboration. Furthermore, the festival provides a sustainable source of income and international recognition for local folk artists, helping to ensure the future of their traditions.

If you find yourself in Rajasthan during October, the Jodhpur RIFF is an unmissable event. More than just a music festival, it's a journey into the soul of India, set against one of the country’s most awe-inspiring backdrops. Whether you're a cultural enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable experience, the RIFF promises nights of rhythm, melody, and magic that will stay with you forever.