New Delhi: To celebrate the life and works of Kabir, the 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint, the second edition of the Mahindra Kabira Festival will begin tomorrow at his birthplace, the holy city of Varanasi. With performances by grassroots artistes as Bindumalini & Vedanth, Mahesha Ram, Nathoo Lal Solanki, the three-day festival will dwell upon Kabir's philosophy and bring to music-lovers an unforgettable experience at the famous Assi Ghat.   

Organised by Mahindra Group in association with Teamwork Arts, the festival will bring together leading exponents of the Benares Gharana, folk traditions, Sufi music, Dadra, thumri, khayal gayaki styles, and ghazals. "The festival will also feature discussions on Kabir's poetry and attendees will get an opportunity to explore the city's heritage," Jay Shah of Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. said. An aural and visual feast, the festival will include guided heritage and food walk to help the attendees get a better understanding of Kabir's philosophies.   

The festival will have 'Literature Afternoons', where experts will discuss ideas and philosophy inspired by Kabir's poetry. Each day will culminate with performances by Shubha Mudgal and Kailash Kher at the popular Chhota Nagpur Bageecha and at Assi Ghat after the Ganga Aarti. "The festival is the perfect portrayal of the mysticism of Kabir and the intense cultural spell the city of Varanasi casts. 

This edition of the festival promises to be a most memorable one through a fascinating programme and lineup linked intricately with the spirit of this remarkable city," Sanjoy Roy, managing director, Teamwork Arts, said.