Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2022- An Ultimate Guide to Spellbinding Art

Ghani Khamma folks! The land of rich culture and heritage is here to present the breathtaking festival of the year. Yes, it’s all the jazz and bling about the Rajasthan International Folk Festival. India hosts numerous festivals that attract millions of tourists every year. Being a prime destination to witness art, music and dance forms, India significantly hosts the Rajasthan International Folk Festival. 

Rajasthan International Folk Festival is hosted at Jodhpur at and around the Mehrangarh fort. A number of magnificent performances and events are held in and around Mehrangarh Fort during the folk festival. Music and art is all round the corner.

But the classic amalgamation of Indian and International artists is not something you get to see everyday! Imagine the thrill when listening to Rajasthani folk music while vibing with performers from the far-off lands of the world. 

What is the Rajasthan International Folk Festival?

The folk festival is a not-for-profit project by Mehrangarh Museum Trust and Jaipur Virasat Foundation. The “peoples” platform allows you to witness multiple skilled artisans, folk singers, performers and international talents.

The festival primarily tries to display the heritage and pride of talented humans across the country. Right from the talented singers and performers in Rajasthan to the popular bands in the world, everyone unites to respect art like never before! 

Rajasthan International Folk Festival 2022: Dates and Venue

The folk festival is a 5-day long gathering where you get an opportunity to know Rajasthan from spectacular perspectives.  

Date: The Rajasthan International Folk Festival begins on 6th October, 2022 and ends on 10th October, 2022. 

Location: Rajasthani International Folk Festival is hosted at the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. 

Since you are already in the city check out 30 FANTASTIC PLACES TO VISIT IN JODHPUR, RAJASTHAN

Know interesting facts about the Rajasthan International Folk Festival

• Maharaja Gaj Singh of the former royal dynasty of Jodhpur is the chief patron. Mick Jagger, the Rolling Stones’ frontman and singer, is the festival’s international patron.
• The folk festival began in 2007 and continues to expand yearly. More than 250 performers from several areas of the globe participate and display their talents at this music festival in Rajasthan.
• The festival is endorsed by UNESCO as it is a platform to showcase hidden talent and art. 
• Also known as Jodhpur folk festival, it is oriented towards the goal of producing fresh sound, recognizing distinct musical heritages and collectively contributing towards music.

RIFF 2022: Events and Highlights

6th October, 2022

The folk festival starts with a folk morning that includes joyful music, dance and storytelling. You get an amazing opportunity to witness different Rajasthani performances in the form of Kathputli, Ghoomer and Kachchi Ghodi. The day is further brightened with performances by the Young Langa musicians followed by the Rajasthani circus. The day is filled with traditional art and culture displays from singing and dancing. Teerah Taali (dance form) is all set to make you dance on the reverberating sounds at the folk festival.

The day ends with an illuminating night concert at the Jaswant Thada parking lot. As the cold weather flows through you, the melodious sounds of Sumitra Devi welcome you at the RIFF. Breaking gender stereotypes, you get to watch the charm and splendour of music presented by women singers. The night moves ahead with rhythmic beats coming right from Mauritius through Emlyn. Emlyn is to present Sega grooves with enthralling moves. 

After this, allow yourself a little break as a spectacular performance is presented by Arifa Band in fusion with the masters from the Langa and Manganiyar communities. The day ends with Dhol Drummers of Rajasthan, Ashok Pahadia, and Agni Bhawai, an ancient fire eating dance performer.

Want to know more about the place check out TOP 10 MOST FAMOUS HISTORICAL PLACES IN RAJASTHAN TO VISIT IN 2021

7th October, 2022

The Rajasthan International Folk Festival is an entry to healing mornings as the dawn starts with the Meghwals of Marwar. The masterful Bhallu Ram, Mahesha Ram Chattagarh and Teja Ram of the Meghwal community are ready to showcase divine rhythms created with dholak, tandura and manjira.

Post this, an exquisite music session is presented by Dr. Mebanlamphang Lyngdoh along with Amabel Susngi, Banshailnag Mukhim and Rising borders Kurkalang. These musician scholars focus on the distinctive Khasi music traditions of Meghalaya. 

The folk festival is a depiction of royalty and grandeur of Rajasthani performances. Padma Shri Lakha Khan Manganiyar (sindhi sarangi), Padma Shri Anwar Khand Baiya (vocals) and Pempa Khan Manganiyar (Shehnai and Murli) shall present their profound knowledge of music under the series of of “Living Legends.” The evening is followed by the Womanly Voices of Rajasthan where women singers depict the folk traditions through music. Such a night is highlighted by the talented Mohini Devi, Ganga and Sunder and Suraiya Ji.

RIFF now presents a magical combination of Gareth Bonello (Cardiff based songwriter) with Asin Langa and Khasi musicians. A jaw-dropping time is promised as it is an unbelievable fusion of Welsh, Khasi and Rajasthani music. The event is further energised by the performances of Emlyn and Arifa.

The second day of the folk festival ends with a soothing storytelling session by Sardar ji, Askar ji, Kadar ji along with Shamshu and Kasam. Let me open the secret here, it’s no ordinary storytelling. The story is narrated with music, song, oral recitation and breathtaking performances.

8th October, 2022

Surprisingly, the morning starts with a Khasi Dawn that includes the intriguing songs of Meghalaya. The indigenous music is sung by the special Khasi people. Followed by the charming tunes, the folk festival presents a Dance Boot Camp where you are all free to show your moves. What’s more? You’re accompanied by Jaciel Neri, a choreographer of performing arts from Mexico. 

The day moves forward with a film screening of Heading West, a movie by Dan Coutts. As the screening ends, you get to experience the Indie Afternoon where young songwriters and singers get an excellent opportunity to meet significant Indian artists. Bawari Basanti and Harpreet Singh are set to welcome relevant and original music from the budding talents of the country. 

The evening on this day offers a power-packed time with skilled performers grooving on their beats. Here, you shall witness north-african folk music by Riff Cohen, colourful dance moves by young musicians of the Langa community (SAZ) and a tributary performance for late Sakhar Khan Manganiyar by the artists of the community. As you enjoy the Rajasthani beats, get ready to experience the sound of high energy instrumental music by Bombay Brass, a homegrown instrumental band led by Rhys Sebastian. The day ends with a soulful performance by Maga Bo who explores Afro-Brazilian culture along with Rajasthani percussionists.

9th October, 2022

A divine morning begins with the voice of Jasleen Kaur Monga (raag based Shabads). You’re again welcome to the Dance Boot Camp conducted by Asha Sapera who is all set to synchronise your steps and twirls with the Rajasthani Ghoomar. 

The day moves ahead with the Sufi songs of the Langa and Manganiyar communities. Notable artists including Saawan ji, Kachara ji Chanan ji, Muse ji and Rashid ji present their knowledge and popular compositions to the audience.

As the evening welcomes you, Dilshad Khan sets to heal and rejuvenate you with north-indian classical music. He is to be accompanied by Pratap Patil. You also get an existing opportunity to heat the ancient set of Rajwadi Maand (old name of the Jaisalmer city) by Anita and Prem Dangi. 

As the sun settles, Yurdal Tokcan takes over the stage to combine traditional music with polyphonic textures. Along with this, Ghewar and Darra Manganiyar also present their knowledge of the kamaicha (a string instrument).

Additionally, an iconic combination can be found through the Citadels of the Sun, a fusion of Ireland and Indian music. This is presented by Sarah E Cullen, Martin Coyle, Paul Cutliffe in collaboration with Asin Khan Langa and Sawai Khan Manganiyar. 

You cannot miss out the unbeatable music generation through the finest qawaals – Warsi Brothers. The day ends with RIFF Rustle where Rhys Sebastian will jam with most performers and singers to curate a fresh composition out of luck!

10th October, 2022

As the Rajasthan International Folk Festival comes to an end, be ready to be greeted with the finest closing concert. Prahlad Tipaniya, a folk maestro from Malwa enlightens the audience with beautiful poetries of sant Kabir Das.

Before the year ends check out TOP 10 UNCONVENTIONAL FESTIVALS OF 2022 THAT YOU SHOULD NOT MISS!

How to reach Jodhpur (Mehrangarh Fort)

By Air: 

The domestic airport (Jodhpur Airport) is about (8.5 Km) from the Mehrangarh fort. Sanganer Airport in Jaipur (339.0 Km) and Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi (579.5 Km) are the closest international airports to Jodhpur.

By Rail:

The nearest railway station to reach Mehrangarh Fort is the Jodhpur Junction (5.7 Km). Travellers can book trains to Jodhpur from the main tourist attractions of Rajasthan including Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jaipur and Barmer.

By Road:

Jodhpur is well-connected through roadways. Travellers can opt to drive or even opt for buses operated by public transport. Private buses are available from Jaisalmer, Bilara, Jaipur, Balotra, Siwana, Udaipur and Barmer.

Here’s why you should attend Rajasthan International Folk Festival 

• Nothing better than soothing your soul with the most rhythmic voices at the festival. It is indeed a privilege to discover the fusion of art, dance and multiple forms of music and take home, enthralling memories! 
• Attending the folk festival adds on to your life experiences because how often do you come across a splendid platform of artists from around the world? 
• The beauty of culture, tradition and pure Rajasthani style can best be experienced through its depiction on the stage. 
• It’s not only the folk festival. You get to meet the skilled human settlements, know their stories, greet the artists and appreciate the hidden art of India.
• Hodophiles, here’s your chance to explore the magnificent forts and palaces that showcase the royalty of the state.

Stay options for a great time in Jodhpur 

The folk festival is truly a mesmerising experience for travellers. However, it is equally crucial to book your stays at comfortable locations. Treebo is here to help you! After a tiring day, Treebo Hotels offer the best amenities and free breakfast. Browse the amazing hotels in Jodhpur for a relaxing getaway.
You are just a step away from exploring the vibrant nooks and corners of the state. Rajasthan International Folk Festival is indeed a delightful opportunity to indulge into art and culture only to store it in your heart for a lifetime.