Embracing art through the eyes of Kabir

Taking off from a memorable inaugural edition last year, the Mahindra Kabira Festival returns to Varanasi for three days from November 10 – 12, with another sublime celebration of the mystical poet saint Kabir. The festival promises a specially curated experience of the life and works of Kabir, his music and poetry, and the city of Varanasi, his birthplace, unparalleled for its unique ambience, flavour, soul and history.

Conceived by the Mahindra Group and leading performing arts entertainment company, Teamwork Arts, the festival will feature grassroots artistes as well as renowned names such as Bindumalini and Vedanth, Mahesha Ram, Nathoo Lal Solanki, and headline performances by the unmatched Kailash Kher and Shubha Mudgal.

Kabir's poetry is all about inclusiveness – and like last year, festival will celebrate this philosophy and bring to music-lovers an unforgettable experience.

"At Mahindra, we are committed to the preservation and promotion of the arts. We are delighted to present the festival in its second edition where leading artistes will perform works inspired by the legendary poet-saint with the famed Varanasi ghats forming a stunning backdrop. The festival will also feature discussions on Kabir's poetry and attendees will get an opportunity to explore the city's heritage in what promises to be an immersive experience." says Jay Shah, Vice President, Head - Cultural Outreach, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Speaking about the second edition of the festival, Sanjoy Roy, M.D, Teamwork Arts says, "The festival is the perfect portrayal of the mysticism of Kabir and the intense cultural spell the city of Varanasi casts. This edition of the festival promises to be a most memorable one through a fascinating programme and lineup linked intricately with the spirit of this remarkable city."

At Darbhanga Ghat for Morning Music, audiences will awaken to uplifting musical performances while the popular – and low profile – Panditji, equipped with the natural essences of ittr, crafts a unique mix based on the raag being sung.

Specially guided Heritage and Food Walks, curated by expert chroniclers, will unlock the city's mysteries, and help attendees understand the gentle passion of Kabir's philosophies.

Evening Music, with headline performances by Shubha Mudgal and Kailash Kher, will mark the culmination of each day at the popular Chhota Nagpur Bageecha and at Assi Ghat after the grand aarti.

In an incomparable tableau unique to Varanasi, the musical performances at Assi Ghat will be staged on the river under the stars, facing the ghat where audiences will be seated.

The festival awaits, gearing to fill your senses amid the omniscient Ganga twinkling with a thousand lights from passing boats, ghats bedecked and and the call of an ancient city.