About

The Mahindra Blues Festival is back, and it's hitting the stage for its 12th year with all the soulful, foot-tapping, and heart-wrenching blues vibes that have made it a legendary event. This annual celebration has etched its name into the soul of Mumbai at the iconic Mehboob Studios, Bandra, becoming a timeless tradition that keeps blues lovers coming back for more. The festival's legacy is a vibrant blend of gritty narratives, soul-stirring rhythms, and the artists who've etched their tales on its stage over time. It's a testament to the enduring magnetism of blues, a genre that digs into your soul, evoking emotions that resonate with all music lovers. As the 12th edition takes the stage, prepare to be carried away by the raw, evocative power of the blues with some of the more iconic performing live. It's not just a festival; it's a timeless journey through the heart and soul of a genre that transcends time and place, leaving an indelible mark on all who experience it. Stay tuned for a power-packed line-up dropping soon!

Early Life

In 2011 the festival was founded by the Mahindra Group and the inaugural edition took place on February 5-6, 2011, at Mumbai's Mehboob Studios. It was headlined by Chicago Blues legend Buddy Guy, who pledged his support without hesitation. The festival aimed to put the blues genre on the map in India and Asia, and quickly gained popularity. The Mahindra Blues Festival continued to grow, becoming one of the largest blues online communities in Asia. It featured a diverse lineup of international and Indian artists, including Gary Clark Jr., Susan Tedeschi & Derek Trucks Band, Beth Hart and Charlie Musselwhite. The Mahindra Blues Festival has played a significant role in promoting blues music in India and Asia. It has helped to introduce Indian audiences to a wide range of blues artists, both international and Indian, and has also helped to nurture the Indian blues scene. The festival is more than just a music event; it is a cultural movement that celebrates the music and spirit of the blues.

Achievements

From Muddy Roots to Mumbai Magic: The Mahindra Blues Festival was conceptualised In 2011, where its saw its very first festival come to life in the iconic Mehboob Studios in Mumbai. Buddy Guy's electrifying performance set the tone, and the festival quickly blossomed into a one of the most coveted events of the year. Year after year, the blues resonated through the city. International stars like Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo' shared the stage with rising Indian talents like The BlackStartblues, weaving a tapestry of music that transcended borders The Mahindra Blues Festival became more than just a music festival; it became a cultural movement. It championed inclusivity, with the 2024 all-women lineup making a powerful statement. Today, the festival stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the blues, a vibrant force captivating audiences year after year.

Past Headliners

Buddy Guy, Taj Mahal, Beth Haart, Keb Mo, Susan Tedeschi & Derek Trucks, Coco Montoya, Charlie Musselwhite and many more.

Independent Artists at Mahindra Blues

MBF isn’t just about headlining artists but it’s a platform for independent artists from across the country to showcase their talents. Launched in 2012, the Band Hunt is a nationwide talent search for undiscovered blues bands. Winners get the coveted opportunity to perform at the main festival, sharing the stage with international icons and gaining invaluable exposure. Some of the past winners have gone onto perform at one of the main stages at the festival like Blackstratblues and Arinjoy Sarkar. The band hunt still continues to be a year on year activity that upcoming artists look out for to showcase their music.

Cultural Outreach

The Mahindra Group, over the years, through its products and services, a deep sense of corporate responsibility and programs in cultural outreach, has enabled positive change in individuals and communities globally. Mahindra “Rise” is holding a mirror to our organization and articulating what we stand for. Cultural outreach is about connecting with the communities we serve through specially created programs in the space of Art and Culture. Cultural Outreach is also about sparking conversations across different cultures through the vantage of a large global federation of companies. Our cultural outreach programs are not mere sponsorships. Each initiative has a strategic purpose and creates a positive impact both for our brand as also for the art form we support. Each of these initiatives brings us closer to our stakeholders and helps strengthen our shared values.