Delhi Set to Host Jashn-e-Rekhta 2025: A Grand Celebration of Urdu Language, Culture, and Music
The world’s largest Urdu festival returns from December 5–7 at Baansera Park, marking a decade of celebrating words, music, and cultural unity.
New Delhi, Oct 27: The capital is set to immerse itself in the lyrical charm of Urdu as Jashn-e-Rekhta 2025, the world’s largest festival celebrating Urdu language, literature, and culture, returns for its 10th anniversary edition. Hosted by the Rekhta Foundation in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority, the festival will take place from December 5 to 7 at Baansera Park.
Celebrating a Decade of Urdu Heritage
Launched in 2015, Jashn-e-Rekhta began as a humble effort to revive and celebrate Urdu’s timeless beauty. A decade later, it has evolved into a global cultural phenomenon, drawing thousands of visitors from across the world.
“Jashn-e-Rekhta has grown not just in size but in spirit. Every year, it proves that Urdu continues to live in the hearts of millions,” said Sanjiv Saraf, Founder of the Rekhta Foundation.
Poetry, Music, and Conversations
This year’s edition promises an exciting lineup featuring over 300 artists across 35 sessions on five distinct stages — Mehfil Khana, Dayaar-e-Izhar, Sukhan Zaar, Bazm-e-Khayal, and Aiwan-e-Zaiqa. Each stage will offer a unique cultural experience, blending soulful poetry, powerful performances, and immersive discussions.
Highlights include:
Mehakti Khushbu Ka Safar with legendary lyricist Gulzar.
Rang-e-Mausiqi, a vibrant musical performance by Sukhwinder Singh.
Saaz Aur Sama, featuring the soulful melodies of Salim-Sulaiman.
Dil Abhi Bhara Nahin, a tribute to poet Sahir Ludhianvi with Javed Akhtar, Shankar Mahadevan, and Pratibha Singh Baghel.
The Orchestral Qawwali Project by Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa, making its India premiere.
Rang Aur Noor, a musical drama by Huma Khalil, celebrating Urdu’s influence on cinema.
The much-anticipated Rekhta Mushaira and Rooh-e-Majrooh will bring together renowned poets and lyricists from across the globe, creating a confluence of tradition and contemporary expression.
A Cultural Movement Beyond the Festival
“Jashn-e-Rekhta is a celebration of Urdu in all its splendour from poetry and music to literature and performance,” said Huma Khalil, Trustee and Creative Director of the Rekhta Foundation. “Beyond the festival, our mission is to preserve India’s Sufi and literary heritage, digitise rare manuscripts, publish Urdu works, and make learning accessible to everyone.”
From its humble beginnings, Jashn-e-Rekhta has transformed into a cultural bridge connecting generations and geographies a testament to the enduring magic of Urdu and its power to unite through words, music, and emotion.