The Royal Opera House, Mumbai is all set to showcase the evocative sounds of Rajasthan as Jodhpur RIFF, in association with Avid Learning, presents “SAZ and Friends: When the Desert Plays”.
At the heart of the evening is SAZ, a remarkable Rajasthani folk trio from the Langa community of Western Rajasthan. Rooted in centuries-old musical traditions, SAZ features Sadiq Khan, a master folk dholak player; Asin Khan, Aga Khan Music Award recipient and Sindhi Sarangi virtuoso; and Zakir Khan, an exceptional khartal player and singer. Having performed from desert towns to global stages, they compose
original music and rediscover forgotten songs.
The performance is set to open with Rang-e-Thar, SAZ’s signature set that journeys through rare village songs, ecstatic dance rhythms, and original compositions.
Following this is Inayat: A Duet for Four, a powerful artistic dialogue between SAZ and Tarini Tripathi, a third-generation Kathak dancer rooted in a lineage of women performers, which blends Rajasthani folk songs and Sufi kalaam with the grace and rhythm of Kathak, creating a compelling interplay between four brilliant artists.
Following a short intermission, comes The Cool Desert Project, where SAZ teams up with Mumbai-based saxophonist Rhys Sebastian, who is known for his brass work in film and advertising. He combines bluesy riffs to a lush musical conversation with Asin Khan’s sarangi, crafting a soundscape both earthy and experimental.
The evening is set to showcase original work commissioned and produced by Jodhpur RIFF, under the aegis of the Mehrangarh Museum Trust, Jodhpur. The festival has created and toured numerous collaborations between Rajasthan’s folk traditions and diverse global root music forms. Each work has emerged from residencies and sustained artistic exchange, developed and led by the musicians themselves. All works are commissioned and produced by Divya Bhatia, Festival Director.
Uniting these performances is the spirit of Jodhpur RIFF: honoring living traditions while boldly reimagining them.
As cultural catalysts, the Royal Opera House and Avid Learning continue to foster meaningful connections between artists, audiences, and tradition–bridging past and present through thoughtfully curated programming.
Catch the performance on August 8.