Ragas FROM Jodhpur A Decade of RIFFs & Revelry

The Jodhpur RIFF, Rajasthan International Folk Festival, which is held at the majestic Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, has not only survived the test of time, but has also set an example for other music festivals of India. This year, as the festival turns 10, Malvika Nanda pieces together nostalgia and the present to examine its legendary quotient…

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The fact that the legendary Rolling Stones founder Mick Jagger is a patron of a festival in India, or that the same festival is also held under the patronage of the HH Gaj Singh II of Marwar, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, may not be widely known. But, the fact that India hosts a world class international music and culture festival annually, with national and international audience thronging on duly purchased donor passes, is known and recorded about RIFF.

In the words of Divya Bhatia, Festival Director (and Producer), the success of the festival has everything to do with the neeyat (intention) and neev (foundation). “It’s a result of consistency of thought, of will and actions along with what you are putting out. And, the singularity of intentkeeps us on our path…” The director adds, “But, we have to keep asking ourselves, are we successful?” indicating that even a festival like RIFF doesn’t get overconfident or complacent.

The festival that takes place in the enchanting historic environs of the majestic Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, has managed to strike a balance between sustainability, growth, and staying true to its initial intention of promoting Root music. Case in point, this year too, they have over 200 local folk artistes and 110 other folk performers from across the world.

The experience of the local artistes has been made richer, thanks to their collaboration with international Root musicians and tours, of course. Before and after the festival, there are camps organised for the artistes by Bhatia, who has travelled across the world to introduce and build opportunities for these folk artistes.