Ziro On Tour arrives in Hyderabad

Chorun Mugli performs at the Ziro Festival of Music in Arunachal Pradesh. File.
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The Ziro Festival of Music from Arunachal Pradesh embarks on a new journey with the inaugural edition of Ziro on Tour in Hyderabad. The historic Taramati Baradari provides a distinctive setting for the two-day event, featuring soul-stirring live music with performers like Ram Miriyala, Shakthisree Gopalan, Rabbi Shergill and Nawab Gang, fusion cuisine blending Hyderabadi favourites with North Eastern delicacies, artisan craft stalls, creative sessions for children, and heritage walks.

“Hyderabad audiences will get a glimpse of the culture and spirit that make Ziro Festival unique. It’s more than just a music event; it’s a celebration of creativity, sustainability, and community,” say the festival’s co-founders, Anup Kutty and Bobby Hano, in an email conversation.

Eco-friendly music festival

Singer Ram Miriyala
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Held in the picturesque Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, the Ziro Festival of Music enters its 12th edition, widely regarded as India’s most eco-friendly music festival. According to co-founder Bobby Hano, the festival is not just about music but about fostering a deep connection with the environment, culture, and community. “Over the years, it has become a melting pot of cultures, celebrating diverse genres and encouraging collaborations between local, national, and international artists,” he adds.

This year marks a significant milestone as the festival travels outside Arunachal Pradesh for the first time, shining a spotlight on Hyderabad. “Hyderabad was chosen because of its vibrant cultural diversity and its ever-growing love for music and art,” says co-founder Anup Kutty. He adds, “We wanted to bring a slice of Ziro to a city where people can experience the valley’s magic without having to travel to Arunachal Pradesh.”

The festival’s journey over the years has been transformative. Showcasing a blend of independent artists and traditional folk performers, it has grown from a grassroots, bootstrapped event into an internationally recognised cultural celebration. “We celebrate music from every corner of the world, but the festival has also played a crucial role in spotlighting the folk traditions of Arunachal Pradesh, including Apatani cultural performances,” says Anup.

Over the years, Ziro Festival has hosted an eclectic mix of artists, including Mono, Shye Ben Tzur, Nubya Garcia, Lee Ranaldo, and Tamikrest, alongside Indian indie favourites such as Bipul Chhetri, Rabbi Shergill, Parvaaz, Fakira, and G Force.

(file photo) Storytelling session
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The festival is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, and these eco-friendly practices will be implemented in Hyderabad as well. Single-use plastics are strictly prohibited, and all food and beverage containers will be biodegradable or reusable. Drinking water stations will be set up, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own bottles, as packaged water bottles will not be sold at the venue.

“We also plan to promote waste segregation at the venue and collaborate with local NGOs to ensure responsible waste management. Our aim is to leave no trace, just as we do in Ziro Valley,” says Bobby.

Ziro On Tour at Taramati Baradari will be held across February 1 and 2; For details and tickets: https://ziroontour.com/schedule/