For 15 years, the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur has been the stage for a unique cultural spectacle: the Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF). This year, the festival, set to take place from October 16th to 20th, 2024, promises to be even more extraordinary, featuring a diverse lineup of over 280 artists from across India and the globe.
The 17th edition of RIFF will weave together the threads of local and international artistry, creating a captivating tapestry of musical and cultural performances. From the soulful melodies of Rajasthan’s traditional folk music to the electrifying rhythms of electronic music, the festival aims to showcase the rich diversity of global music while celebrating the enduring power of traditional arts.
The festival lineup is a testament to RIFF’s commitment to bringing together artists from various backgrounds. French electronic artist Éric Mouquet, co-founder of the Grammy-winning Deep Forest, will headline the event, blending electronic sounds with traditional folk rhythms. Representing the heart of Rajasthan’s musical heritage, the renowned Manganiyars of Marwar will enthrall audiences with their captivating desert melodies. Other notable performances include Kutiyattam maestro Kapila Venu from Kerala, the award-winning Norwegian group GABBA, and acclaimed Indian singer, composer, and lyricist Sona Mohapatra.
This year, a special focus will be on collaborations between folk and classical musicians. Mehardeen Khan Langa, a master of the Sindhi sarangi and alghoza, will showcase his talents alongside Idu and Asin Khan Langa, while Asin Khan will also perform with classical sarangi player Dilshad Khan, bridging the gap between folk and classical traditions in a unique musical dialogue. This type of collaboration, according to festival director Divya Bhatia, is a testament to RIFF’s dedication to innovation while respecting the deep roots of Rajasthan’s music.
RIFF 2024 is also committed to celebrating the contributions of women artists. Bhatia emphasizes that women, often the custodians of oral traditions in Rajasthan, rarely get the opportunity to perform in public spaces. This year’s festival will shine a spotlight on several talented women performers, including Sukanya Ramgopal, the first female ghatam player in Carnatic music. Ramgopal will perform alongside her student, Giridhar Udupa, and his student Shreeharsha, showcasing intergenerational mastery of percussion instruments.
Beyond the stage, RIFF aims to create a lasting legacy for the preservation and promotion of Rajasthani folk music. The Mehrangarh Museum Trust, in partnership with Divya Bhatia, plans to organize regular training sessions for young musicians, allowing them to learn from masters of folk traditions. This initiative aims to foster a new generation of artists who can carry forward Rajasthan’s musical heritage while adapting it to modern audiences. Conversations are also underway to establish an instrument library, providing young musicians access to instruments they might not otherwise be able to afford, further empowering young artists and ensuring the survival of traditional musical practices.
RIFF’s impact extends beyond the five days of the festival, contributing significantly to cultural tourism in Rajasthan. The festival attracts music lovers, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe, showcasing Jodhpur and Rajasthan as a global center for cultural exchange. The presence of international artists and visitors further strengthens the local economy, bringing in revenue for businesses, hotels, and artisans. RIFF’s growth may also inspire a broader interest in cultural events across India, positioning the country as a top destination for cultural tourism.
The festival’s long-term goal of creating a sustainable ecosystem for folk artists will have a ripple effect, promoting cultural preservation efforts across India. As RIFF enters its 17th year, it continues to evolve while remaining true to its core mission of preserving and promoting Rajasthani folk music. The 2024 edition promises to be a vibrant celebration of global music, cross-cultural collaboration, and the vital role that traditional artists play in contemporary society. Through continued support from both the local community and international audiences, RIFF is helping to create a future where Rajasthan’s cultural heritage is not only preserved but celebrated on the world stage.
