A Serene Inauguration on the Ganges
As dawn breaks, a group of expectant listeners ride the gentle currents of the Ganga at 6 am on a brisk December morning. Their destination is the Guleria Ghat in Varanasi, where the mist-laden waters pave the path for a spiritual journey. This marks the beginning of the revered Mahindra Kabira Music Festival’s seventh edition, a festivity that pays homage to the 15th Century poet and saint, Kabir. The opening act features Sandeep Singh captivating the audience with the melodious strings of his taus, setting an ambience that seamlessly intertwines with the surroundings.
Homage to Legends
Spectators are enraptured by a commemorative concert celebrating the centennial of Pandit Kumar Gandharva, conducted by his grandson Bhuvanesh Komkali. It is a fitting continuation to a festival inaugurated with such tranquillity yet fervent anticipation. Occurring over the span of December 16-17, 2023, the well-orchestrated event showcases a wide array of programs focusing on the teachings and art inspired by Kabir.
Engaging the Senses
Cultural enthusiasts gathered from all corners of the globe indulge in an opulent array of classical, folk, and fusion music performances, complemented by enlightening conversations about the mystic poet. The festival features not only the sonorous echoes of heritage music but also immersive experiences. These include heritage walks amongst Varanasi’s ancient structures, temple tours, Ganga Aarti, boat rides, and a veritable feast of local Banarasi cuisine, including the city’s fabled malaiyo.
Cultural Resonance and Growth
Jay Shah, Vice President and Head of Cultural Outreach at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, reflects on the festival’s journey of cultural evolution and the exploration of art. He speaks of the Kabira festival as not merely an event in Varanasi’s cultural circuit but a beacon attracting diverse participation on a national scale. Matching the festival’s stature are other endeavors by the group, like the Mahindra Blues Festival and the Mahindra Percussion Festival, each representing the cultural essence of its respective host city.
Artistic Innovations and Creative Forms
Artists at the festival are known to break from the mold, offering unconventional interpretations of Kabir’s work. It’s a fest that breathes innovation into performance arts, challenging artists to venture outside their comfort zones, as evidenced by performances in languages not originally tied to the ethos of the festival. This element of exploration and invention is essential to the artistic character of the festival.
The Importance of Varanasi
Sanjoy Roy, the Managing Director of Teamwork Arts, highlights the significance of the Kabira festival, stating its position as the first in their Sacred series and the profound connection to Teamwork’s ethos. A discussion unfolds on the flexibility of Kabir’s teachings, as evident from the variety of artist interpretations at the festival, reinforcing the importance of intellectual inquiry and spiritual seeking, which pervades Kabir’s philosophies.
Proliferation Through Pop-Ups
In an effort to amplify the influence and reach of the festival, pop-up formats have been introduced in different locations, providing teasers to the main event. These are more than just previews; they’re bridges to international recognition, much like the Mahindra Blues special in Chicago, which introduces the Mumbai festival’s essence to a global audience.
An Immersive Evolution
Commitment to offering an immersive experience is of paramount importance to the festival organizers. Over seven editions, they have honed this aspect, ensuring that each year offers a novel perspective on the festival’s offerings. Adaptation and positive transformation remain at the core of their agenda, celebrating Varanasi’s cultural diversity.
The Enchantment of Performance
When Anwar Khan Manganiyar, the celebrated Rajasthani singer, graces the stage at Shivala ghat, his presence is as stirring as his music. His fusion of sufi and folk traditions brings fresh dimensions to Kabir’s bhakti music. Khan, expressing his sentiments backstage, articulates the honor he feels performing in such a sacred place and acknowledges the festival’s significance in promoting the musical heritage of his Manganiyar community.
The Mahindra Kabira Music Festival stands as a testament to the legacy of Kabir, weaving the mystical into the tapestry of contemporary cultural expression. This year’s edition once again infused Varanasi with the timeless teachings of Kabir, leaving its mark on all who were captivated by the power of music, spirituality, and communal harmony.
