For music enthusiasts navigating the overwhelming sea of digital audio, discerning unique artists and exploring diverse music genres can seem like a daunting task. However, there’s a beacon of hope on the horizon—Bir Music Festival (BMF). As it celebrates its 10th edition, this festival promises a rich amalgamation of original musical performances and engaging cultural experiences, making it a must-visit event for anyone looking to embark on a sonic journey.
The BMF’s 10th edition is set to offer an array of activities in addition to the diverse musical performances. Among these are a cyclothon, star gazing sessions, yoga, and art workshops, all designed to enrich the experience for everyone who attends.
“Bir is Asia’s largest paragliding destination, but that’s not all there is to this village. It has a rich culture, and we, as a community of artistes, are coming together to promote it,” remarks Alakhananda Sharma, the founder of BMF. The festival, which had its origins in 2020 during the pandemic, aims to foster tourism and cultural appreciation in the village.
One of the most striking aspects of BMF is its commitment to sustainability. Alakhananda proudly points out, “Even the stage of the festival is made from bamboos, and the sheds in the venue are made from discarded and donated clothes.” This eco-conscious ethos is a core part of what makes BMF unique.
“Across the previous nine seasons, we have hosted over 300 artistes from across the country,” Alakhananda adds. The upcoming edition will feature headliners like Indie band Agnee, alongside several lesser-known but equally passionate bands and musicians. This includes DIY Disruption, a Kerala-based rock band, Rajasthani classical and ghazal singer Prakhar Jojan, and Likhari, a Delhi-based poet.
A key element of BMF is its dedication to live music. “Our music is 100% live, and everyone plays and performs their original compositions,” Alakhananda emphasizes. Over the festival’s 56-hour duration, music will continuously flow from two stages, ensuring an uninterrupted auditory feast for the attendees. Furthermore, the festival’s tickets cover accommodation and meals, though day passes are exclusively available to residents of Himachal Pradesh.
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The festival’s inception was driven by a desire to promote original music, particularly from the mountainous region, and has since expanded to feature artists from various locations. Beyond music, the festival also includes activities led by yogis, healers, and painters. An art stage will host painting sessions and other formats like fire and slow art, with performances and workshops designed to engage the creative minds of attendees.
In addition to promoting music and art, BMF is dedicated to supporting local businesses and culture. Food and beverages available at the festival are locally produced, contributing to the village’s economy. Alakhananda explains, “The festival is for all ages, but since the venue is spread out, we have a separate bar area where we only allow adults. We do not sell local alcohol, but we make them taste it through activities for free, so people can go into the village and experience it themselves. This is another source of income for the local women.”
Fitness enthusiasts will find BMF equally appealing, with the inclusion of a cyclothon. The 24-kilometer cycling track offers a scenic route through the village, allowing participants to soak in the tranquil views of the Himalayan mountains. “People will need to register separately for the cyclothon. We take bookings according to the level of experience people have, and they can also choose to ride e-bikes,” says Alakhananda.
In another unique approach, BMF does not sell drinking water; instead, they have set up kiosks with earthen pots filled with drinking water, encouraging attendees to use reusable bottles. This initiative not only minimizes waste but also supports the festival’s sustainable ethos.
The Bir Music Festival is scheduled to occur from June 15 to June 17 at Hipostel, Bir. Tickets, which start at ₹8,925, can be booked on birmusicfestival.com.
For those yearning to delve into one of India’s most vibrant cultural and musical events, keep an eye on the Bir Music Festival—where the harmony of nature and artistry seamlessly converge to offer an unforgettable experience.
