The Jaipur Music Stage (JMS), one of India’s most awaited contemporary music platforms, has announced a vibrant and diverse line-up for its 2026 edition, to be held from January 15 to 17 at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur. Running parallel to the iconic Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF), the Jaipur Music Stage continues its tradition of celebrating India’s flourishing independent music scene through powerful live performances, genre-defying collaborations and fresh artistic voices.
Opening on January 15, the festival will feature Soumik Datta | Travellers, an immersive new production by the internationally acclaimed sarod virtuoso and recipient of the 2025 Eastern Eye ACTA Award for Music. Blending sarod melodies with ambient soundscapes, spoken word and field recordings, the performance is part of Datta’s extensive Melodies in Slow Motion tour across India. Sharing the stage on opening night is the Vasu Dixit Collective, renowned for its high-energy electronic-folk sound rooted in Kannada and Hindi traditions. Led by singer-composer and filmmaker Vasu Dixit, the ensemble reimagines the poetry of saint-poets like Basavanna and Kabir through contemporary, spirited arrangements.
The second evening, January 16, brings together some of the most influential voices from India’s independent music circuit. Headlining the night is acclaimed rock band Parvaaz, known for its progressive and psychedelic rock sound infused with folk and world music influences. Their latest album Na Gul Na Gulistan, released in December 2025, has topped global indie charts. Joining them is singer-songwriter Raman Negi, formerly the frontman of The Local Train, whose solo work has earned acclaim for its introspective lyricism and genre-blending style. His albums Shakhsiyat and Chaltey Purzay continue to resonate with audiences nationwide. The evening will also feature Yugm, Jaipur’s own folk-fusion ensemble, celebrated for its socially conscious storytelling and contemporary musical approach.
The festival concludes on January 17 with a high-energy finale led by Thaikkudam Bridge, one of India’s most sought-after live acts. Known for their large-format, cross-genre performances, the 15-member ensemble has played over a thousand shows across the world. Joining them is Gauley Bhai, a contemporary folk-rock quartet that blends Nepali folk with blues, rock, hip hop and Afrobeat, earning a strong following for its textured sound and community-driven initiatives.
Speaking about the line-up, Avik Roy, Festival Producer – Jaipur Music Stage, said, “At its core, the Jaipur Music Stage seeks to showcase India’s leading independent acts, celebrating the diversity and strength of the country’s independent music scene. We are delighted to bring together such exceptional artists from across the country at India’s leading literature festival.”
Over the years, the Jaipur Music Stage has emerged as an integral cultural pillar of the Jaipur Literature Festival, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the dynamism of contemporary Indian music in an open, inclusive setting. The 2026 edition promises to continue this legacy by fostering collaboration, celebrating independent voices and creating unforgettable musical evenings.
