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Holi 2026: KSHMR to embark on five-city India tour; check all the details here

Holi, popularly known as the 'Festival of Colours' has always been a celebration of so much more including music. While the classic hits have always been a part of the playlist, a lot of electronic music has seamlessly blended into our dance tracks too.  This festive season, EDM prodigy KSHMR takes centre stage, as he embarks on a five-city tour, produced and promoted by Sunburn. KSHMR to perform in India Sunburn Holi Weekend 2026 ft. KSHMR will kick off in Mumbai on March 3, featuring a special performance by DJ Chetas, followed by Chennai on March 4, Bengaluru on March 6, Bhubaneswar on March 7, and Hyderabad on March 8.  The tour marks a significant milestone with KSHMR making his debut performance in Bhubaneswar, bringing his globally acclaimed experience to the city for the very first time, and especially during Holi. Who is KSHMR? Niles Hollowell-Dhar, better known as KSHMR, rose from producing hip-hop and pop hits, including anthems ‘Like A G6’, to becoming one of dance music’s most celebrated figures with chart-topping tracks including ‘Secrets’ with Tiesto and ‘Kids’ featuring MKLA. The music producer's hits also include ‘Bad’, ‘My Best Life’ and 'Power'. With 10 Beatport number 1s, DJ Mag’s Best Live Act award, his own Dharma Worldwide label and the influential Sounds of KSHMR packs, KSHMR continues to shape global music and headline the world’s biggest stages. A long-standing favourite with fans in India, KSHMR’s association with Sunburn runs deep, also creating the Sunburn Festival 2024 anthem with OTIOT ft. KEL titled ‘Khoye Yahaan’. He has played a defining role in shaping the evolution of electronic music culture in India. His shows are known for their immersive storytelling, emotional depth and cinematic scale, transforming stages into experiences that go far beyond music. KSHMR stands apart as an artist who bridges worlds. A former member of the pop-EDM duo The Cataracs, he broke out as a solo artist in 2014 and rapidly became a global festival mainstay. As the founder of Dharma Worldwide, a sub-label under Spinnin’ Records, he has not only built a distinctive sonic universe for himself but has also championed a new generation of artists worldwide. Regularly ranked among the DJ Mag Top 100 DJs, KSHMR continues to command global stages including Tomorrowland, Ultra Music Festival and Electric Daisy Carnival. In India, his influence runs even deeper. KSHMR has consistently incorporated Indian sounds, themes and narratives into his music, forging an emotional connection with fans across generations. His collaborations with renowned Indian artists such as DIVINE and Raja Kumari have further cemented his place in the country’s contemporary music landscape, making each of his performances feel both global in scale and deeply personal in spirit. Known for his deep-rooted connection with Indian audiences and a sound that seamlessly blends cinematic orchestration, big-room EDM and Indian classical influences, KSHMR’s return promises a powerful celebration of music, culture and colour.  Talking about the Sunburn Holi Weekend, KSHMR commented, “India has shaped my music in more ways than people realise, so coming for Sunburn Holi Weekend feels especially full-circle. Holi is a festival that celebrates colour, rhythm and shared emotion - the same elements that run through my sound. Taking this experience across five cities allows me to express that connection more deeply and I’m excited to celebrate this with fans through my music.” Karan Singh, CEO, Sunburn, added, “Over the years, Sunburn Holi Weekend has evolved into a marker on the cultural calendar for music lovers across India - a time when audiences come together to celebrate sound, colour and shared experiences. 2026 is no different and bringing KSHMR into this moment feels especially organic. His music carries a rare balance of global electronic sensibilities and deeply rooted Indian influences, making him a natural fit for a festival as expressive and spirited as Holi. This five-city tour reflects both the scale of anticipation around Sunburn Holi Weekend and our continued intent to take meaningful, world-class electronic music experiences to audiences across the country." Tickets are available exclusively on BookMyShow.

06 February,2026 09:13 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
John Mayer is all set to perform during Valentine's Week 2026 in Mumbai. Photo Courtesy: File pic

Perfect date? Ahead of Valentine's Day 2026, John Mayer to perform on Feb 11

Listening to John Mayer in Mumbai during Valentine's Week in the days leading up to Valentine's Day is probably the most perfect way many couples will be celebrating love not only among themselves but also for Mayer. Mumbaikars are gearing up to listen to the 'Your Body Is Wonderland' singer on February 11, after it was rescheduled from January 22. As the seven-time Grammy Award-winning artist makes his much-anticipated India debut with a one-night-only performance at the iconic Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the concert couldn't happen at a better time as many Indians will look for more meaningful ways to pause, connect and celebrate. For those seeking to mark Valentine’s Week differently this year, the show offers a rare opportunity to experience music that has defined love in all its forms. Known for his soulful voice and acclaimed guitar work, Mayer has stood at the intersection of virtuosic guitar craft and intimate songwriting, blending blues, rock, folk and pop in ways few artists have achieved. Tracks like ‘Slow Dancing in a Burning Room’ and ‘Gravity’ capture the quiet intensity of love, while ‘Your Body Is a Wonderland’ remains an enduring ode to affection and intimacy.  Songs such as ‘Love on the Weekend’ and ‘New Light’ bring a lighter, hopeful energy, making the evening feel both reflective and celebratory. For those seeking plans that feel personal, memorable and rare, this will definitely be truly special.

06 February,2026 01:10 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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With Keinemusik set to perform in Mumbai this March, know more about them

Known to be one of global electronic music's most influential collectives, Keinemusik will perform in India in March and with that it arrives in Mumbai with its iconic Kloud experience. Their visit comes a year after one of their members &Me gave city dwellers a taste of their music. Set to take over Mumbai at Mahalaxmi Racecourse, on March 27, the night promises immersive, slow-building sets and a visual and sonic environment rooted in collective presence. Who is Keinemusik? Keinemusik, a Berlin‑born DJ collective and record label has redefined how electronic music is experienced. Since 2009, Adam Port, &ME, Rampa and Reznik have stitched together their distinct musical sensibilities into a single voice, one that balances deep groove with emotive melody and hypnotic rhythm, alongside visual collaborator Itohan, work as a single unit, shaping music, live flow and visual language together. Over the past decade, they have become fixtures at global stages from Ibiza to Coachella, Tomorrowland to Burning Man, blending house, techno, afro‑house and melodic textures into sets that feel more like continuous journeys than playlists. Each member brings a signature energy to the collective sound. &MEs productions often weave warm, atmospheric layers and melodic depth, making tracks feel cinematic and soulful. Rampas work centers on detailed sound design and percussive sophistication, while Adam Ports eclectic influences, from funk to afro rhythms, inject versatility and momentum into the mix. Reznik adds a curatorial edge, shaping sets that keep each performance unfolding with intent and cohesion. Witnessing Keinemusik live Live, Keinemusik is known for extended DJ performances where music evolves deliberately over hours, letting groove and texture take precedence. Their sets unwind like stories: layered, immersive and attuned to the crowds energy. This has made their back‑to‑back (B2B) sets legendary among electronic audiences and a standout experience at both underground clubs and headline festival slots. Visuals are more than backdrops at a Keinemusik show; they are part of the world they create. Central to this is the collectives peace cloud and Kloud imagery, which has become a visual signature at their performances worldwide. Floating above DJ booths and woven through stage setups, the Kloud symbolizes unity, shared energy and an enveloping sonic atmosphere that blends visuals with sound. Itohans current visual direction integrates this imagery into a cohesive, layered experience that enhances rather than distracts from the music. Their influence extends beyond club walls. Keinemusik's members have collaborated with mainstream artists, including co‑production on tracks for Drakes Honestly, Nevermind, and contributed to fashion and cultural crossover moments, underlining their impact on music and style beyond the dancefloor. As Sunburn gets them to India for an immersive perform, music lovers can get their tickets on BookMyShow starting from Rs 4000.

06 February,2026 11:59 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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J-K identifies over 33,000 rare manuscripts to preserve India's heritage

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has identified 33,858 rare manuscripts from various institutions and private custodians as part of the Union government's flagship Gyan Bharatam initiative, officials said on Wednesday. The initiative is aimed at unearthing, safeguarding and preserving India's vast manuscript heritage. Chairing a meeting, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo directed the culture department to actively involve the public and encourage them to come forward for the identification, digitisation and preservation of rare manuscripts. He said the mission is not merely a technological exercise but a collective cultural responsibility requiring cooperation among the government, institutions and the people to preserve invaluable knowledge for future generations. Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums, K K Sidha said 33,858 manuscripts have already been identified from government and semi-government institutions, religious establishments and individual custodians. He said a special household survey titled 'Har Ghar Dastak' is being planned to trace and digitise manuscripts with the consent of their owners. "The initiative will target coverage of at least one panchayat each day." The head of the Department of Persian at the University of Kashmir, Jehangir Ahmad, whose department has been designated as a Cluster Centre for digitisation, said around 5,000 manuscript pages have already been scanned at the laboratory established at the university. Sidha also announced that a separate digitisation laboratory will be set up in Jammu to ensure smooth and timely execution of the mission in the region. Principal Secretary, Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma, said the Gyan Bharatam Mission aims to digitise one crore manuscripts across the country to establish a national digital repository of Indian knowledge systems, ensuring seamless knowledge sharing and long-term preservation of India's intellectual legacy. "The mission is anchored on achieving three 'Ds' -- digitisation, deciphering and democratisation -- through a '4S' strategy that includes searching for manuscripts, saving them, scanning them and sharing them in the public domain in an accessible form," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

06 February,2026 11:02 AM IST | Jammu | PTI
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Lord Buddha's relics sent from Gujarat to Sri Lanka for week-long public display

Relics of Lord Buddha, preserved in Gujarat's Vadodara, will be kept in Sri Lanka for public viewing for one week starting February 4 as part of a special programme. The relics include 'asthi' (holy ashes) of Lord Buddha, a permitted ceremonial robe, and a stone reliquary box with a lid. The box is decorated with silver and gold wires and bears inscriptions in Brahmi and Sanskrit reading "Dashbal Sharir Nilaya," meaning "Place of Lord Budha's remains". Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday, February 3, offered floral tributes to these relics at the Department of Archaeology and Ancient Studies at the Sayajiganj campus of the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. Members of the Buddhist Mahabodhi Society and other dignitaries, including Rajmata Shubhangini Raje Gaekwad, were present on the occasion. These relics will be transported to Sri Lanka via Delhi and are scheduled to reach Colombo during the Sri Lankan New Year, a government release said. The ashes of Buddha were safeguarded near one of Vadodara's most ancient sites, the Vimleshwar Mahadev temple by Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, it added. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in 2025, India and Sri Lanka agreed to further strengthen cultural exchanges between the two nations. As part of this agreement, and considering Sri Lanka's Buddhist-majority population, the relics are being displayed during the New Year celebrations. These sacred relics were discovered during excavations at a mound near Devnimori, close to Shamlaji in Gujarat. In 1957, Professor S N Chaudhary of Maharaja Sayajirao University identified the site, the release said. Systematic excavations began after 1960 around the mound and nearby areas, confirming the presence of a Buddhist monastery that later declined in the 8th century. The monastery is believed to belong to the Hinayana tradition. Under the guidance of chief monk Mahasena, monks Agnivarna and Sudarshan constructed a Sharir Stupa near the monastery. These Buddha relics will be on display in Colombo till February 11. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

04 February,2026 05:03 PM IST | Vadodara | PTI
Indians all over went crazy when Lionel Messi came to India in 2025. Photo Courtesy: PTI

'The Messi Experience’ exhibition to come to India in March; check details here

After K-pop band BTS Jung Kook's 'GOLDEN: The Moments' exhibition came to Mumbai in 2025, the internationally celebrated 'The Messi Experience - A Dream Come True' is coming to India this March with a one-of-a-kind immersive exhibition, marking one of the most anticipated stops on the 2026 world tour.  Following successful premieres in cities like Buenos Aires, Puerto Rico, Panama, Beijing, Chicago, Mexico City, Miami, Los Angeles, and Sao Paulo, the awe-inspiring exhibition aims to invite football lovers and families across the UAE and the region to step inside the world of Lionel Messi, who is regarded as one of the most influential athletes of all time.  Produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, the exhibition will premiere in Mumbai from March 20, before heading to Bengaluru from June 19. The India edition will be held at Century Mills in Mumbai's Lower Parel, and at Bhartiya City Mall in Bengaluru. In a press release to the media, Leo Messi speaking about the exhibition said, “I am thrilled to see this project come to life and bring fans even closer to me - both on and off the field, continuing, “I have always sought to inspire and connect with people through my passion for soccer, and this experience will allow Indian fans to relive the most unforgettable moments of my career.”  Naman Pugalia, who is the chief business officer - Live Events, BookMyShow, said, “The Messi Experience’s debut in India marks a new chapter for football lovers across the country, bringing them closer than ever to one of the world’s most celebrated sporting personalities through a landmark exhibition. Leo Messi is far more than a football legend; he is a global cultural icon whose story has inspired generations worldwide."  Hosted across two of India’s most vibrant and cultural cities, 'The Messi Experience' will offer an interactive and multisensory journey through the defining moments of Leo Messi’s story, highlighting his growth, challenges. From his early days in Rosario to lifting the World Cup trophy in Qatar, fans will relive the emotional and inspiring chapters that shaped a footballing phenomenon.  The 75-minute experience unfolds across nine themed zones, combining cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence, immersive environments and never-before-seen content. Fans will be able to “train like Leo Messi,” step into recreated match moments and explore exclusive personal stories that shaped his legendary career. The journey also includes an official merchandise store and an activation zone for fans to engage beyond the exhibition. Whether you’re a lifelong follower or discovering Leo Messi for the first time, the exhibition promises inspiration, excitement and a deeper connection to the beautiful game. 

04 February,2026 04:55 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Indian singer Sid Sriram performed in Mumbai as a part of his tour on January 31. Photo Courtesy: File pic

Sid Sriram: Diljit Dosanjh and I could make something powerful together

Indian singer Sid Sriram has produced many hits ever since he started out more than a decade ago. Known for his extensive work with the South Indian film industry singing in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, he has also been a part of Marathi and Hindi projects, showcasing his diverse musical journey.  Among several hits, many in Mumbai got introduced to the singer through 'Srivalli' from 'Pushpa: The Rise' (2021) but the Carnatic musician has produced many others over the years including 'Mudhal Nee Mudivum Nee', which is among this writer's favourites apart from others including Sid's English music. The latter opened a whole new world as it seamlessly blends Carnatic music with Western influences. While Indian audiences were already familiar with his vocal range, the singer admits that one particular performance helped introduce his music to a global audience.  Sid’s 'Homecoming' India tour saw him perform in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad in 2025. As the tour culminated in Mumbai this weekend, Sid spoke to mid-day.com about the timing of the performances, creating music, and even the possibility of a collaboration.  Here are excerpts from the interview:  Firstly, how does it feel to be on your first-ever multi-city India tour? Also, what inspired you to finally do it this year? It has been super exciting. The journey has been exhilarating and filled with so many memorable moments. The tour is a celebration of the whole journey. It just felt like the right time.  With roots in Chennai and upbringing in California, your music is a unique fusion of Carnatic mixed with soul and R&B among other genres. How have both the regions influenced your musical journey over the years? I think the main way both regions have influenced my musical journey is instilling in me the idea that home is an ever-evolving and shifting thing.  With this understanding being at the core of my lived experience, I've been able to really dive into the idea of shape-shifting as an artist. My whole career has been a product of bringing my different worlds together. The desire to explore this musically came from my relationship with the idea of home.  You have dabbled extensively with music for the South Indian film industry, and you seamlessly switch to regional languages. While your music demands it, how do you stay connected to your roots in the US? Not dabbled, I've immersed extensively in the music of the South Indian film industry. It's been a great journey singing in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, and Hindi. Staying connected to my roots while in the US feels pretty effortless. I grew up with Carnatic music surrounding me and music was my way of staying anchored in my culture.  Apart from your film music, I distinctly remember listening to your NPR Tiny Desk concert when it came out. It had such a unique blend of your Classical roots and Western influences. Since the time you've been active, how have you seen more non-Indians gravitate towards your music, and Indian classical music at large? Did you set out to make more people aware of its rich history or is it happening along the way naturally? That Tiny Desk was a pivotal moment in bringing my roots and amplifying them out into the world. For many folks that watched my Tiny Desk performance, it was their introduction to Indian music. Since then, I've seen more people, including non-Indians, tapping in with my music and asking questions about Indian music.  You have released quite a few singles in 2025. Are you currently working on any new music or an album that fans can expect any time soon? Additionally, if there was one Indian artist you would like to collaborate with, who would it be? I have a lot of new music I've been working on, both in Indian languages and in English. It's been a great deal of fun creating this music, and I'm eager to share it with the world soon. In terms of collaborations I'd like to do, Diljit (Dosanjh) and I could make something powerful. 

04 February,2026 08:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento Pinto
The Lumineers performed in Delhi-NCR on February 1 last weekend. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement

The Lumineers mesmerises Delhi with raw emotion during sole Asia concert

Music lovers of Delhi-NCR experienced a unique musical evening as American folk-rock band The Lumineers returned to India with their globally acclaimed 'The Automatic World Tour'.  The concert unfolded as a deeply immersive experience, blending intimate storytelling with soaring anthems and an unmistakable connection between the band and their audience. From the moment the lights dimmed and Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites stepped onto the stage, the atmosphere shifted into one of collective anticipation. With stripped-back arrangements, heartfelt lyricism and a commanding yet understated presence, The Lumineers drew the crowd into their world, creating a space where every song felt personal and every chorus echoed with shared emotion. What followed was a performance that felt less like a spectacle and more like a communal journey. Reflecting on the evening, Naman Pugalia, who is the chief business officer - Live Events, with BookMyShow, said, “Indie music has always found its power in storytelling, in the quiet honesty of its narratives and the way they invite listeners into something deeply personal. Artists like The Lumineers have an ability to turn these intimate stories into shared emotional experiences that travel across borders and cultures. Their return to India feels like a reflection of how audiences look for pure connection, meaning and authenticity in a live music experience. Curating shows where music can be felt, not just heard; where atmosphere, emotion and community intersect, is increasingly shaping the way live entertainment is experienced in the country.” The band’s setlist moved like a quiet conversation across time, gathering songs that have come to define The Lumineers’ journey including ‘Ho Hey’, ‘Cleopatra’, ‘Ophelia’ and ‘Stubborn Love’, setting them gently alongside the newer, introspective pieces from Automatic, including ‘Same Old Thing’, ‘You’re All I Got’, and ‘Keys On The Table’. Each song arrived unhurried, received in reverent silence or carried softly by thousands of voices, as the crowd drifted between memory and the fragile beauty of the present moment.  The band shared their love for the Delhi crowd and, before launching into ‘Asshole’, raised a toast to the night, dedicating the song to all the “assholes” in the room, themselves very much included. The Lumineers blurred the line between the stage and audience, allowing vulnerability to sit comfortably beside swelling crescendos. Beneath the open sky, the night, held together by warmth, sincerity and shared emotion, left an afterglow that lingered long after the final note. As the crowd rose in applause and the lights dimmed on an evening that felt both expansive and deeply personal, it was clear that The Lumineers’ India show, produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, set the tone in the national capital for the rest of the year.

03 February,2026 12:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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Here's why these Mumbai students are documenting Marathwada's historic stepwells

A group of students and faculty members from a Mumbai-based college has been mapping and documenting ancient stepwells, locally known as 'baravs', across the Marathwada region in central Maharashtra, a lecturer from the institute has said. The study covers stepwells located in Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Parbhani and Lonar in Buldhana district, she said. According to lecturer Tanvi Joshi of Chembur Trombay Education Society's College of Architecture, Mumbai, 62 students and seven faculty members are involved in the 'Maharashtra Baarav Mission' project. "The aim is to understand the architectural, historical and functional significance of the stepwells," she said, adding that they have been sharing their findings with the government authorities to facilitate conservation of these historic structures. Local historian Rambhau Lande, who has been assisting the team, said that British-era gazetteers recorded around 90 wells in the Jalna district, but only 38 are traceable today. "So far, the team has documented 12 stepwells in detail," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.

01 February,2026 09:43 AM IST | Jalna | PTI
At HyLo, experience some new music. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement

Indulge in these unique experiences in Mumbai this weekend

If you have been looking to enjoy a laidback weekend in Mumbai, then there is a lot to explore because while there are some really interesting food experiences, add some music to the mix, but not without the luxury of Mumbai's horse racing. Here are some curated events to explore this weekend: Music showcase HyLo Kalaghoda is back with another powerful three-room showcase, this time shining the spotlight on the incredible Rural (JP) crew. Spanning across three distinctive spaces – the Terrace, The Listening Room, and the main HyLo floor – the showcase promises a seamless journey across moods, tempos, and textures. Each room will offer its own identity and energy, with extended sets. This special edition features the collective, creating a powerful cultural exchange between Japan’s influential underground scene and Mumbai’s evolving music landscape. Where: Hylo, Kala Ghoda When: January 31Time: 3 pm onwardsPrice: Early Bird tickets at Rs 999 Flavours of Malaysia The Fairmont Mumbai is hosting 'The Merchants of Malaysia', a Malaysian food and culture festival that to celebrate the flavours of the country in a menu curated by Chef Irwan and Chef Faridul Ataras Ab Razak. Diners can enjoy delicious food and cocktails for lunch and dinner, while watching traditional dance performances during the latter experience. Start with refreshments such as Teh Ais Limau, followed by dishes such as Udang Goreng, crisp fried prawns, and beloved vegetarian specialties including Bakwan Sayur and Tauhu Sumbat, served with a bold peanut and chilli dip. Choose from salads such as Kerabu Ayam, a herb-forward chicken salad brightened with citrus, to the sweetly tangy Kerabu Udang. Vegetarian offerings such as Acar Jelatah bring refreshing contrast, combining crisp vegetables, pineapple, aromatic herbs, and lim. You can also savour soups such as Laksa Lemak, enriched with coconut milk, noodles, and fragrant spices, and Sup Ayam Bersama Kentang, a soothing chicken broth with tender young potatoes. You can enjoy main course like Ayam Masak Berlado and Gulai Lemak Udang Dengan Rebung, alongside thoughtfully crafted vegetarian dishes like Rendang Tauhu and the homestyle favourite Fried Meehoon, a Malaysian village-style noodle dish. End your meal with Cucur Badak, Kueh Sri Puteri Ayu, and Kuih Bakar, to the indulgent Serawa Durian but not without sipping on delicious cocktails or beverages such as Teh Tarik, the refreshing cendol, and aromatic luwak coffee. Where: The Merchants, The Fairmont Mumbai, Andheri EastWhen: On till February 8Time: 12 noon - 3 pm, 7 pm onwards Call: 080975 55901 Indian derby The Villoo Poonawalla Indian Derby, in collaboration with the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) is hosting a horse racing spectacle in Mumbai at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai.  The event brings together racing enthusiasts, industry leaders, and tastemakers for a full-day experience that seamlessly blends high-stakes sport with gourmet indulgence, world-class cocktails, live entertainment, and fashion-forward glamour.  If you love the thrill of horse racing and celebrating luxury and style, then wear your best because the dress code is Western Formals.  Where: Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mahalaxmi When: Sunday, February 1Time: 2 pm onwards Price: Rs 1000; book on District by Zomato

31 January,2026 02:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in Mumbai to begin from January 31. File pic

Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 returns to Mumbai with theme ‘Ahead of the Curve’

The iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) returns for its landmark 26th edition, transforming Mumbai’s historic Kala Ghoda precinct into a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community. KGAF is scheduled to start from Saturday, January 31 to Sunday, February 8. Mumbai's one of the most loved festival will run daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, inviting audiences to experience Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival—free and open to all. Theme 2026: Ahead of the Curve Symbolising foresight, innovation, and leadership in the arts, Ahead of the Curve reflects KGAF’s enduring commitment to staying at the forefront of cultural expression. Like a winning steed leading the pack, the festival sets the pace. KGAF this year also looks to honour tradition while anticipating tomorrow. Organised by the Kala Ghoda Association, KGAF has grown from a local initiative in 1999 into one of India’s most loved cultural events, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Scale and  Scope The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in 2026 will hold more than 300 programs across 15 verticals. The festival will also include more than 25 indoor and outdoor venues, including CSMVS Museum, Cross Maidan, David Sassoon Library, Horniman Circle Garden, and K. Dubash Marg Free registration and entry for all events KGAF in Mumbai this year will keep a strong focus on sustainability, diversity, accessibility, and pedestrian-friendly urban design. Brinda Miller, chairperson, Kala Ghoda Association and festival director, said, “As we embark on the milestone 26th edition of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we are thrilled to continue celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of Mumbai. This year’s theme, Ahead of the Curve, reflects our ambition to surpass last year’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.” Festival Verticals Children, Cinema, Dance, Food, Heritage Walks, Lifestyle, Literature, Music, Stalls – Arts, Crafts & Fashion, Stand-up Comedy,Street Programming,Theatre,Urban Design & Architecture,Visual Arts, Workshops Each vertical interprets Ahead of the Curve through a distinct sub-theme—ranging from Spandan (Dance) and Sound Waves (Music) to Avant-Garde (Theatre), Geometri (Visual Arts), and The Learning Curve (Workshops). Led by Geeta Castelino, KGAF strengthens inclusive participation through emotional, functional, and technical accessibility—with touch-and-feel moments, sign-language interpretation, ramps, interpreters, and inclusive programming across venues and verticals.

31 January,2026 12:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
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