Jashn-e-Rekhta 2025: Delhi gears up for a cultural extravaganza of words and music

Delhi is ready to come alive with the soulful rhythm of Urdu as the world’s largest festival celebrating this beautiful language, literature, and culture, Jashn-e-Rekhta returns for its 10th anniversary. Scheduled from December 5 to 7 at Baansera Park, the festival is hosted by the Rekhta Foundation in collaboration with the Delhi Development Authority.

Celebrating a decade of Urdu

When Jashn-e-Rekhta first began in 2015, it was a modest initiative to revive and celebrate Urdu. And today, it has transformed into a global phenomenon that draws visitors from all over.

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Sanjiv Saraf, Founder of Rekhta Foundation, says, “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.”

Music, poetry, conversation, and more

This year’s edition features over 300 artists across 35 sessions, spread over five unique stages: Mehfil Khana, Dayaar-e-Izhar, Sukhan Zaar, Bazm-e-Khayal, and Aiwan-e-Zaiqa. Each stage offers a distinctive experience from moving poetry recitals to lively musical performances.

Audiences can look forward to Mehakti Khushbu Ka Safar with Gulzar. Rang-e-Mausiqi promises a powerhouse musical performance by Sukhwinder Singh.

 

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Saaz Aur Sama will showcase Salim-Sulaiman’s signature blend of soulful melody. The festival will also pay tribute to legendary poet Sahir Ludhianvi with Dil Abhi Bhara Nahin featuring Javed Akhtar, Shankar Mahadevan and Pratibha Singh Baghel.

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For those seeking contemporary sounds, the Orchestral Qawwali Project will premiere in India with Rushil Ranjan and Abi Sampa’s acclaimed ensemble while Rang Aur Noor, a musical drama by Huma Khalil, celebrates Urdu’s cinematic influence. The much-awaited Rekhta Mushaira and Rooh-e-Majrooh will gather poets and lyricists from around the world to recite and perform.

According to Huma Khalil, Trustee and Creative Director of the Rekhta Foundation, “Jashn-e-Rekhta is a celebration of Urdu in all its splendour from poetry and music to literature and performance. Beyond the festival, the foundation works year-round to preserve the Sufi and literary heritage of our country, digitise manuscripts, publish books, and make Urdu learning accessible through audio-visual content and online courses.”

From its inception as a small gathering, Jashn-e-Rekhta has grown into a global movement, bridging generations and connecting people through the power of words, music, and culture.