December 19, 2024 – Jashn-e-Rekhta 2024, the world’s largest celebration of Urdu language and culture, concluded with a spectacular finale after three days of enriching performances, discussions and cultural experiences. The festival, held from December 13-15 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, brought together thousands of enthusiasts to immerse in the timeless beauty of Urdu.

The event was inaugurated by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, and renowned writer and poet Javed Akhtar, marking the beginning of an unforgettable celebration. Rekhta Foundation’s Sanjiv Saraf and Creative Director Huma Khalil addressed the audience, sharing exciting updates on new initiatives and upcoming projects such as Rekhta X and Rekhta Plus.

The opening evening featured a spellbinding Sufi performance by Padmashri Kailash Kher and Kailasa, captivating the audience with their soulful melodies.

Day 2 was a tribute to the legendary poet Sahir Ludhianvi, with performances by the Qutbi Brothers and a compelling Dastangoi session by Himanshu Bajpayee and Pragya Sharma. The theatrical production Jaun Elia ka Jinn mesmerised attendees, followed by a soul-stirring Sufi performance by Ustadma Zila Khan. The day also included a Khuli Nishist—an open house of Urdu poetry—a platform for youth to perform their poetry.

In addition to these performances, book releases by Javed Akhtar, including Kyon: Jaun Elia's Unpublished Poetry, and Wayward Verses by Sanjiv Saraf, sparked lively discussions on the evolving relevance of Urdu. The Baitbaazi Finale, a national game of Urdu poetry, was also a key highlight where youngsters from universities across the nation participated. A masterclass by Professor Ghazanfar on the intricacies of Urdu poetry and the much-awaited Rekhta Mushaira, with legendary poets like Hasan Kamal, Shamim Abbas and Dr Abdullah, brought the audience to their feet. The day culminated in a breathtaking performance by Papon, blending poetry and music seamlessly.

Day 3 saw a dynamic mix of performances and discussions. Kavita Seth's evocative performance, a Sufi Kuchipudi dance by renowned artist, Pernia Qureshi, a book launch and an interactive session featuring Ali Fazal highlighted the festival’s diverse offerings. The Young Poets Mushaira and performances by the Ali Brothers brought a fresh, youthful energy.

Thought-provoking discussions were also held on Urdu language with influencers. Nischhal Zaveri’s Sufi performance also had the audience spellbound. The festival closed with the heartwarming performance Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon—a tribute to the iconic songs that tell the stories behind Bollywood’s most beloved songs, created by Javed Akhtar.

A major highlight of the festival was the Rekhta Pavilion, offering a unique and immersive experience for attendees. The pavilion featured Dial-e-Poet, an AI-powered telephonic service that allowed visitors to engage in one-sided conversations with legendary poets like Rahat Indori, Faiz Ahmad Faiz and others. It also showcased Rekhta Food Festival - Aiwan-e-Zaiqa, Rekhta Bazaar and the Books Bazaar, providing a rich blend of culinary, literary and cultural experiences.

Jashn-e-Rekhta, after a resounding success in Delhi, is now set to happen in Dubai on February 1 and 2, 2025.