Staying true to this year’s theme, “Hum Sabka Festival” (A Festival for All), the celebrations commenced with a vibrant Pachranga Parade, not merely a display of folk culture, but a powerful symbol of inclusivity, diversity and unity, setting the spirit of the entire festival.
The chief guest for the occasion was Mr. Neeraj K. Pawan, Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of Rajasthan. Addressing the gathering, he said: “The objective of Nanne Kalakaar Festival is to connect art with society. The enthusiasm and participation on the very first day strengthen our belief that art is the most beautiful medium that unites people of all ages.”
Sharing the vision of the festival, Ms. Riddhi Chandrawat, Festival Director and Director of Abhyutthanam Welfare Society, stated" “Nanhe Kalakaar is not just a festival it is a sensitive initiative aimed at fundraising for specially-abled children. Through art and music, we are bringing society together while working towards a better future for these children.”
The opening day witnessed an electrifying jamming session by Kurjal Band, led by Mandeep and Harsh, which immersed music lovers in soulful rhythms and infectious energy.
Adding to the excitement was Jaipur’s first-ever Baby Rave, organised in collaboration with the Global Health Happiness Festival (an initiative of Kogta Foundation). Curated by Act to Action, this joyful dance session brought together children, parents and even grandparents, becoming one of the most cheerful and colourful highlights of the festival.
As evening approached, Kabir Cafe mesmerised the audience with a soulful performance featuring songs like “Mat Kar Maya Ka Ahankar,” “Kya Leke Aaya Hai,” and “Do Din Ka Hai Mela”, creating an emotional blend of Kabir’s timeless poetry and contemporary music.
Later, the Textile Walk showcased Rajasthan’s rich textile heritage reimagined through AI and modern technology, offering a visually stunning experience where tradition met innovation. The walk was partnered by Rajasthan Fashion Fest, with Killer Jeans as styling partner and Style A Craze as salon partner.
The night reached its grand crescendo with a powerful performance by the legendary Indian Ocean Band. With iconic tracks like “Tu Kisi Rail Si Guzarti Hai,” “Man Kasturi,” and “Bande,” Rahul Ram fused rock and folk to keep thousands of spectators dancing till late night, transforming the first day into a historic musical memory.
Across the festival, visitors are enjoying 20+ art workshops, creative activities, and over 80 food, art and merchandise stalls, creating an immersive experience for audiences of all ages.
The first day of Nanne Kalakaar Festival has already secured its place as a memorable chapter in Jaipur’s cultural calendar, setting high anticipation for Day Two.
On the second day, audiences can look forward to Rajasthani folk jamming by Digpal, followed by a soulful performance by Raahgir, poetry by Runmal Jain, an evening Folk Rave with Digvijay Singh Jasana, and a grand finale concert by Sona Mohapatra, promising a journey of music, emotion and boundless energy. Continuous art workshops, creative zones and the family area will ensure a truly unforgettable festival experience.
About Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation
Founded in 2014, Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation, Jaipur, is a registered NGO actively working in the fields of education, environment and social welfare.
Through its ‘School Bharo Andolan’, the organisation has helped more than 300,000 children every year access their right to education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its food campaign served meals to over 80,000 people, and under the ‘Aranya Ropan Abhiyan’, the foundation has established nine urban forests using the Miyawaki technique.
