Introduction
Music has always been an integral part of the South Asian culture. From classical to contemporary, the region is known for its vibrant and diverse music scene. With the pandemic situation gradually improving, music festivals are making a comeback in 2022, providing an opportunity for music lovers to immerse themselves in the sounds and rhythms of South Asia. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of 10 South Asian music festivals that you must attend in 2022.
1. Holi Cow! Music Festival, Johannesburg, South Africa
Holi Cow! Music Festival is an annual event that takes place in Johannesburg, South Africa. The festival celebrates the vibrant Indian festival of Holi and features a diverse lineup of South Asian and African artists. From bhangra to Afrobeat, the festival offers a unique blend of music and culture.
2. Coke Studio, Lahore, Pakistan
Coke Studio is a live music show that features some of the best musicians from South Asia. The show is filmed in Lahore, Pakistan, and showcases a fusion of traditional and contemporary music. Over the years, Coke Studio has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of fans from around the world.
3. Ruhaniyat, Mumbai, India
Ruhaniyat is a music festival that celebrates the spiritual and mystical traditions of South Asia. The festival features a diverse lineup of artists from India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, who perform devotional music, Sufi qawwalis, and folk songs. The festival takes place in Mumbai and is a must-attend event for anyone interested in South Asian music and spirituality.
4. Bengal Classical Music Festival, Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Bengal Classical Music Festival is a six-day event that celebrates classical music from Bengal. The festival features some of the best classical musicians from India and Bangladesh, who perform ragas, thumris, and khayals. The festival takes place in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and attracts thousands of music lovers from around the world.
5. South Asian Bands Festival, New Delhi, India
The South Asian Bands Festival is an annual event that promotes the emerging music scene in South Asia. The festival features rock, pop, and fusion bands from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, who perform original music and covers. The festival is held in New Delhi and is a great platform for upcoming musicians to showcase their talent.
6. Sufi Night, Dubai, UAE
Sufi Night is a music festival that celebrates the mystical and spiritual traditions of South Asia. The festival features renowned Sufi singers from India and Pakistan, who perform qawwalis, ghazals, and devotional songs. The festival takes place in Dubai and is a great opportunity to experience the soulful music of South Asia.
7. Jashn-e-Rekhta, New Delhi, India
Jashn-e-Rekhta is a celebration of the Urdu language and its rich literary and cultural heritage. The festival features poetry recitals, storytelling sessions, and musical performances in Urdu. The festival is held in New Delhi and attracts Urdu lovers from around the world.
8. Dhaka World Music Festival, Dhaka, Bangladesh
The Dhaka World Music Festival is a three-day event that celebrates the diversity of world music. The festival features musicians from Bangladesh, India, Africa, and the Middle East, who perform a variety of genres, including folk, jazz, and blues. The festival takes place in Dhaka and is a great opportunity to experience the global music scene.
9. Lahore Music Meet, Lahore, Pakistan
The Lahore Music Meet is a two-day event that brings together musicians, journalists, and industry professionals to discuss and celebrate the music scene in Pakistan. The festival features live performances, panel discussions, and workshops. The festival is held in Lahore and is a great platform for networking and learning.
10. Sunburn Festival, Goa, India
The Sunburn Festival is one of the largest electronic dance music festivals in Asia. The festival features some of the biggest DJs and producers from around the world, as well as local talent. The festival takes place in Goa, a beach paradise in India, and attracts tens of thousands of music lovers every year.