With live music making a rampant comeback, it’s going to be a blazing year for music addicts! Check out the hottest gigs this year – from classical ragas to multi-genre music and lifestyle festivals, there’s something for everyone!
For the Ultimate Culture and Music Zealot – Vh1 Supersonic
Hosted at: Mahalakshmi Lawns, Pune
Hosted when: February 24 th to 26 th 2023, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Highlights: If you’re looking for a cultural potpourri of art, music, fashion and food, Vh1 Supersonic
2023 is the ultimate destination! From diverse musical styles spread across 5 stages, a mouth-
watering curation of food, to eclectic flea markets full of curios and art, India is geared up for one of
its biggest multi-genre music and lifestyle experiences. With the recently announced line-up of British
pop-singer Anne-Marie (headlining the festival), Nigerian sensation CKay, and Gehraaiyan fame OAFF
X Savera and actor-musician Farhan Akhtar, festival enthusiasts can be sure of a vibrant and dynamic
‘festival of firsts’ they wouldn’t want to miss!
For the Blues Lover – Mahindra Blues Festival
Hosted at: Mehboob Studios, Mumbai
Hosted when: February 11 th and 12 th 2023, Saturday and Sunday
Highlights: Mahindra Blues Festival has established itself as an incredible confluence of indie and
global blues sounds, with massive footfalls from across the world. This year spells magic for lovers of
the genre, with a heady line-up of legends such as Buddy Guy, Arinjoy Sarkar and the Arinjoy Trio,
Taj Mahal, and more. The event also offers its fans and visitors world-class food options and malts that completes the celebration! The festival has also recently opened its submissions for Mahindra
Blues Band Hunt that recognizes new indie blues talent.
For the Wine and Music Connoisseur – Sula Fest
Hosted at: Sula Vineyards, Nashik
Hosted when: February 2 nd to 5 th 2023, Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Highlights: Wine, gourmet food and music is a timeless blend that makes Sula Vineyard fest a must-
visit. The fest lets one explore the world of wines – from the grape-stomping and wine-making
process to tasting different flavours – like a real connoisseur. Accompanied by live music from
national and international artists and bands, and loads of other activities, it’s definitely one to tick off
on your list!
For the Classical Music Fanatic – Margazhi Maha Utsavam
Hosted at: Perumal Temple, Chennai
Hosted when: December 2023
Highlights: The Margazhi Maha Utsavam is one of the most looked forward to festivals in Chennai,
that happens every year in the month of December. The festival is a celebration of art & culture,
spiritual energy, traditional music & dance and so much more. One can savour classical music and
instruments like thavil, mridangam, ghatam, gottuvadyam, veena, flute, etc. Chennai as a state
celebrates this cultural tradition widespread across the city and renowned musicians and artists come
together to perform in temples, auditoriums, etc. This “Music and Dance Festival," also encompasses
special pooja and music events, with traditional, authentic music and dance forms throughout the
month of December.
For a Diehard History Fan – Festival of Sacred Music
Hosted at: Thiruvaiyaru, Tamil Nadu
Hosted when: January 30 th to February 3 rd 2023, Monday to Friday
Highlights: The Festival of Sacred Music will be showcased in a town that is the erstwhile home of
the Tanjore Quartet and also where saint-composer Thyagaraja lived and created most of his
celebrated works. The Festival of Sacred Music aims to revive the best aspects of Thiruvaiyaru—its culture, music, natural surroundings, and way of life—in order to preserve its history and promote
responsible rural tourism.