If there is one thing that helps everyone escape reality, it is music. A much-needed dose for survival in this tough world. And music festivals are the perfect place to be at, to unwind and connect with your soul. So pack your bags and get ready to depart on a musical journey as India prepares to host these amazing music festivals. Be it classical, jazz, pop, or Kabir Vani, there is a music festival for every mix.

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Ziro Music Festival

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh, 27-30 September 2018

According to Travel Triangle, Ziro Valley has been in the news for a couple of years now and all for the right reasons. A favourite for being listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, lately, it has also been developing a colourful personality of its own – courtesy, the Ziro Festival of Music or in simple words, Ziro Music Festival 2018. Located in Lower Subansiri district in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, the picturesque green valley is a perfect place for an independent artists’ music festival. A festival with some of the best musical talents of India for a diverse audience that is hungry for some original cool music. A vibrant mixture of art, music, and culture, Ziro Festival 2018 has now become a “go to” destination for the youngsters and hip enthusiasts who want to get high on music.

Website: www.zirofestival.com

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The Sacred: Pushkar

Pushkar, Rajasthan, 12-14 October 2018

Surrender to the tranquil charms of Pushkar, immerse yourself in soul-stirring music, relax with our curated therapies, as you shake off the urban ennui and reclaim your Wellness and Joy! The fourth edition of The Sacred: Pushkar celebrates mindful living with a dynamic community of experienced practitioners, therapists, musicians, and fellow celebrants, all enhancing our bouquet for Inspired Living.

Website: www.thesacred.in

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Rajasthan International Folk Festival (RIFF)

Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur, 24-28 October 2018

Held at the majestic 17th century Mehrangarh Fort in the Blue City of Jodhpur, which Rudyard Kipling referred to as “the work of angels, fairies and giants”, Jodhpur RIFF 2018 brings together more than 250 musicians and performers from both Rajasthan and across the world. International artists join hands with local musicians to create new sounds through innovative collaborations.

Website: www.jodhpurriff.org

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Mahindra Kabira Festival

Varanasi, 16-18 November 2018

As reported on its official website, the third edition of the Mahindra Kabira Festival, to be held between 16 - 18 November, will once more inspire an experience of intangible beauty and musical intensity. The idea behind Kabira is to feast one’s senses and spirit on the calm within the chaos of the world’s oldest city and feel that intangible “oneness amongst diversity” preached by Kabir, through the unrivalled power of music, literature and the arts. Get up close with historic melodies, mystic music and the romance of the river.

Website: www.mahindrakabira.com

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The Jazz India Circuit

International Centre Goa (ICG) Panjim, 1 & 2 December 2018

The Jazz India Circuit is your one-stop destination to hear the hippest cats in contemporary jazz tear it up in your city. Their biggest offer is the two international festivals that take place in Goa and Delhi respectively. Over the last two years, these festivals have featured the likes of Stanley Jordan, Dave Weckl, Jojo Mayer|NERVE, Jamison Ross, and 30+ riff-tearing, chops-flaring, brilliant musicians from around the country and the world. This year's Goa line-up features Hiatus Kaiyote, Klein, and Lester Godinho: Still Waters, Orjazzmic, Ozma, Supergombo and Worldservice Project.

Website: www.jazzindiacircuit.com