29th Mahindra Independence Rock to celebrate India's rock music scene; announces exciting lineup!

by  EVENTFAQS Bureau Entertainment | September 13, 2023 | News

Mahindra Independence Rock

Following last year’s triumphant return, where Mahindra Independence Rock (I-Rock) reclaimed its rich legacy, India’s legendary rock festival is gearing up to ignite the stage (and mosh pits) once more at Mumbai’s Bayview Lawns this year.  This iconic festival’s return for the 28th edition in 2022 after a nine year hiatus with Mahindra as the Title Partner reaffirmed its enduring influence on Indian rock music. And now, in its highly-anticipated 29th edition, Mahindra I-Rock promises to deliver a phenomenal celebration of the genre, marked by the revelation of a spectacular line-up featuring 10 exceptionally talented bands. 

This year, Mahindra I-Rock is diving deep into India’s subcultures to span multiple rock genres and languages from all corners of the country. From the southernmost tip of the Deccan to the northern foothills of the snow-capped Himalayas, and even stretching beyond India’s borders to Kathmandu in Nepal - Mahindra I-Rock is bringing sounds that authentically represent the flavour of each region. Expect North-east’s melodic rock and hair metal, West’s death metal and rock infused with reggae, and the South’s rock music layered with traditional Carnatic. With a lineup that includes both seasoned veterans and emerging artists, this year's musical roster truly encapsulates the inclusive and egalitarian spirit of rock.

Farhad Wadia, Founder of Independence Rock, said, “I am excited to see this dream return for its 29th edition this November. When we started I-Rock, we did not have the faintest idea that it would endure and live on as a rock movement reverberating through the years. And I am even happier to see it evolve in the right direction and include diverse rock genres into its soundscape this year, all while keeping its previous traditions of talent discovery alive. The newest edition promises to be bigger and better in every aspect, offering rock music aficionados a befittingly loud and uninhibited celebration of the genre.”

Jay Shah, Vice President - Cultural Outreach, Mahindra Group, mentioned, “Mahindra has and will continue to nurture artistic expression through its many festivals. This year’s festival is excellently curated with popular bands and also the ones that are new on the scene. We look forward to celebrating their unique stories which will be appreciated both by the novice and the seasoned".

VG Jairam - Founder of Hyperlink Brand Solutions, added, “Hyperlink is committed to building and powering immersive experiences that shape rich narratives and diverse stories to bridge people and culture. And Mahindra I-Rock was and still is the holy grail of true rock-and-roll experience. Moreover, with such a varied line-up of bands from across the country, I am certain that this year’s edition will connect diverse audiences with stories and cultures that resonate with them, making for a grand celebration of the genre as a whole.”

Over the years, Mahindra I-Rock has uncovered a wealth of gifted bands, including Demonic Resurrection, Motherjane, Agnee and numerous others. In keeping with this cherished tradition, Mahindra I-Rock will continue to nurture tomorrow’s headliners through a country-wide band hunt, where the winning band will get the chance to kickstart this year’s edition as the opening act.

The festival will be a two-day iconic rock affair unlike any other on 4 and 5 November 2023. Tickets are now live!