Experience two incredible days filled with unforgettable moments—music, delicious food, captivating crafts, rich heritage, and magnificent horses—set against picturesque venues and beautiful weather, far from the everyday grind. Rajasthan’s first-of-its-kind soul-stirring, ambient music festival, Singing Sands, is launching on November 22, 2024. This two-day festival will offer more than 20 unique experiences, including cultural and musical celebrations, interactions with folk artists, craft sessions, food tastings, and heritage walks. Every experience is authentic, and each moment will stay with you forever.
The festival, a vibrant celebration of Rajasthan’s rich heritage, is being organised by Smriti and Naveen Tripathi, accomplished serial entrepreneurs from the region. With decades of experience, Vinod Joshi, a renowned authority on Rajasthan’s music and culture, is at the helm of this event. His impressive portfolio includes the design of over 50 unique festivals and events in the last 20 years, ensuring that this festival will be an unforgettable experience showcasing Rajasthan's best. “The artists performing, singing and dancing in the festival are the keepers of a legacy passed down through generations. Their music, older than anything you see around you, is almost untouched by the modern world”, said Joshi, Festival Director.
The festival will be held at the historic 275-year-old Dundlod Fort in Shekhawati, showcasing renowned regional artists with celebrated lineages. This magnificent fort has been converted into a heritage hotel, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the Rajputana lifestyle in the heart of Rajasthan's Shekhawati region. Dundlod Fort is a stunning example of Rajput artistry and grandeur, featuring beautiful courtyards, open terraces, and tranquil spaces that provide the perfect setting for intimate musical performances. In addition to captivating folk music, the two-day event will offer unique experiences, including opportunities to interact with local artisans, participate in craft-making, and savour delicious traditional delicacies. A highlight of the festival will be a visit to Thakur Raghuvendra Singh’s stud farm, which is famous for having one of the best horse safaris in the world. The farm is mainly known for its majestic Marwari horses. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a Heritage Walk through the village. “This festival is a part of our effort to bring Rajasthan’s culture and heritage to the centre stage by creating unique, unforgettable experiences,” said Smriti and Naveen Tripathi, co-organisers of the festival.
Over two days, attendees can immerse themselves in more than 20 experiences, including craft sessions, food tastings, and heritage walks. Additionally, Singing Sands will offer DIY experiences featuring traditional Rajasthani folk instruments and cuisine. Under the guidance of master musicians, visitors will have the opportunity to try their hand at instruments such as the Kamaycha, Algoza, and Morchang. They will also learn about local ingredients, recipes, and culinary traditions.
No journey to Shekhawati is complete without exploring the havelis, traditional mansions built by local merchants during the 19th and early 20th centuries. As part of the festival, participants will have the opportunity to visit a stunning haveli that has been restored and converted into a museum. Strolling through the haveli’s beautifully decorated courtyard and rooms will feel like stepping back in time, allowing visitors to discover the intriguing lives of the families who once lived there, with their legacy carefully preserved.