Mahindra Kabira Festival Returns To Varanasi For Landmark 10th Edition This December
The line-up includes Aruna Sairam, Kabir Café, Shabnam Virmani, and other renowned artists
The line-up includes Aruna Sairam, Kabir Café, Shabnam Virmani, and other renowned artists
The Mahindra Kabira Festival is set to return to the historic ghats of Varanasi from December 4–6, 2026, marking its landmark 10th edition. Presented by the Mahindra Group and produced by Teamwork Arts, the festival celebrates the philosophy of 15th-century mystic-poet Kabir through music, dialogue, and immersive cultural experiences.
To commemorate a decade of the festival, this year's edition will reunite several acclaimed artists who have been part of its journey over the years. The line-up includes Aruna Sairam, Shabnam Virmani, Kabir Café, Kalapini Komkali, Fakira, The Aahvaan Project, Maharaj Trio, Kamala Shankar, Sveta Hattangdi Kilpady, and Umesh Kabir.
Blending classical, folk, devotional, and contemporary musical traditions, the performances aim to reflect Kabir's teachings while offering audiences a rich cultural experience.
Beyond music, the festival will continue its tradition of hosting philosophical discussions inspired by Kabir's enduring relevance, alongside immersive experiences such as heritage walks, temple visits, boat rides on the Ganga, the Ganga Aarti, and curated showcases of local crafts and cuisine.
Over the past decade, the Mahindra Kabira Festival has evolved into a unique cultural gathering that celebrates Kabir's philosophy of compassion, tolerance, and harmony while fostering a growing community of artists, thinkers, and audiences who return to Varanasi each year.
Festival delegate packages start at Rs 44,000 and include the opening reception, morning and evening concerts, guided heritage walks, Ganga Aarti, boat rides, temple visits, literature sessions, curated meals, and hospitality. Accommodation can also be arranged through the festival at a selection of heritage and boutique hotels near the ghats.
The 2026 edition will open with a reception on December 4 and conclude on December 6, continuing the festival's decade-long celebration of music, culture, and Kabir's timeless legacy.