OUR CORRESPONDENT
Itanagar: The Ziro Festival, a hallmark of cultural immersion and sustainability from Arunachal Pradesh, is embarking on a new journey with the launch of ‘Ziro On Tour’.
The nationwide celebration of music, art, and community will kick off in Hyderabad on February 1 and 2, at the 17th-century heritage site, Taramati Baradari.
Ziro On Tour brings the festival’s ethos - community spirit, sustainability, and passion for independent music - to urban audiences, offering a multi-sensory experience. The event highlights the vibrant cultural and artistic traditions of the Northeast alongside Telangana, emphasizing local talent, culinary delights, and artistic crafts.
The festival’s lineup features a mix of iconic and emerging artists including performances by Rabbi Shergill, known for his Punjabi folk-rock legacy, Arunachal’s indie sensation Taba Chake, Manipuri folk star Mangka and Mizoram’s breakout act HOM.
From the southern states, Ram Miriyala, Shaktisree Gopalan and Chowraasta will share their distinct musical styles.
Virtuoso performers such as Guitar Prasanna, Jyoti Hegde (India’s first female rudra veena artist), flautist JA Jayanth, and Qawwali group Rehmat-e-Nusrat round out the diverse lineup. The Vinyl Stage will feature cutting-edge sounds from experimental artists like Sandy DG, KT, D80, and Raayal Dub, promising an electrifying experience.
Ziro On Tour extends beyond music with workshops, storytelling sessions, and interactive events. Family-friendly activities include puppet and magic shows, live cooking demonstrations, and craft markets featuring sustainable handicrafts and handmade jewellery. Visitors can explore vibrant cultural exchanges while supporting local chefs, artisans, and entrepreneurs.
The festival will feature two amphitheatre stages, offering distinct sunset and moonlight sessions for audiences to enjoy performances in unique atmospheres.
Ziro Festival co-founders, Bobby Hano and Anup Kutty, expressed their excitement about this milestone:
“Ziro on Tour is an exciting new chapter for us as we take the spirit of the Ziro Festival outside Ziro for the first time on such a scale. It’s a milestone for a music IP created in Northeast India. Hyderabad, with its dynamic music scene and cultural richness, is the perfect city to begin this journey. We are deeply grateful for the support of Telangana Tourism, the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, and the larger Ziro Festival communities in making this vision a reality,” he said.
State Chief Minister Pema Khandu said, “Ziro Festival has always been a shining symbol of Arunachal’s rich and vibrant culture, and the initiative is a fantastic step toward expanding its horizons. This endeavour goes beyond music, it’s about building connections, celebrating our heritage, and showcasing the incredible creative talent of our region on a national stage.”
Managing Director of Telangana Tourism Development Corporation N Prakash Reddy also shared his enthusiasm.
“We are delighted to host the inaugural Ziro On Tour in Hyderabad, a city that thrives on its love for music and art. This collaboration highlights the cultural synergy between regions and reinforces Hyderabad’s position as a hub for innovative cultural events,” he said
Diageo India vice president (Marketing) Varun Koorichh said, “Ziro On Tour is an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and sustainability, bringing the soul of the iconic Ziro Festival to Hyderabad for the very first time.”
“This unique experience creates a bridge between communities, offering urban audiences a chance to connect with the spirit of the Northeast amidst the heritage and vibrancy of the city. At Signature, we are proud to support this inspiring initiative, as it perfectly aligns with our commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and meaningful experiences,” he added.
For over a decade, Ziro Festival has been celebrated for its blend of music, culture, and sustainability.
Set against the lush paddy fields of Arunachal Pradesh, it has become a platform for independent artists and eco-conscious practices. By bringing this legacy to urban centers, ‘Ziro On Tour’ fosters deeper cultural connections, ensuring the festival’s essence reaches audiences across the country.
Also Read: Arunachal: Ziro Butterfly Meet Marks 11 Years of Growth in Conservation and Community Engagement
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