Mahindra University to host ‘Roots’ cultural festival on November 22 in Hyderabad
Mahindra Group’s new cultural festival ‘Roots’ debuts at Mahindra University, Hyderabad, on November 22. The event features artists like Raghu Dixit Project, Swarathma, Alif, and Gotte Kanakavva, celebrating India’s folk traditions with a youthful, contemporary twist
Published Date - 15 October 2025, 03:53 PM
Hyderabad: Mahindra Group’s newest cultural initiative, Roots at Mahindra University, is set to debut in Hyderabad on November 22 with an incredible line-up of artists that bridge India’s ancient traditions with today’s youth culture.
The line-up of the festival includes The Raghu Dixit Project, pioneers of India’s folk-rock movement who have redefined Kannada folk poetry for global audiences, and Swarathma, who turns music into environmental, social and cultural activism with electrifying performances. Bringing a northern flavour is Alif, aka Mohammed Muneem Nazir, a poet, singer-songwriter from Kashmir. Hamza Rahimtula Rajasthan Folkstars’ rare dialogue between DJing and Manganiyar traditions led by Khartal virtuoso Jaisa Khan and Firoz Khan on the Bhapang and Morchang.
Also participating will be Gotte Kanakavva, the 65-year-old daily-wage worker and farmer who is now a folk icon, awarded and celebrated for keeping Bathukamma songs alive. Arko and Friends ft Gaboo’s fresh collaboration will bring together Bollywood with indie experimentation, bridging popular and alt music.
“Young people often express the need to reconnect to India’s artistic traditions, and believe they must shoulder the responsibility to both preserve and reinvent them. Roots is a manifestation of this belief,” said Jay Shah, Vice President, Head – Cultural Outreach, Mahindra & Mahindra.