Ragas by the River Returns for Third Edition in Corbett

Ragas by the River Returns for Third Edition in Corbett

Ragas by the River will return for its third edition from 20–22 March 2026 at The Riverview Retreat and Taj Corbett Resort & Spa in Uttarakhand.

Over the past two seasons, the residential classical music festival has developed into a platform where audiences and artistes engage closely in a natural setting along the Kosi River. The 2026 edition will follow the theme Celebrating Legacies, focusing on gharanas, senior maestros and long-standing traditions in Indian classical music.

Festival Director and Promoter Vir Srivastava said the curated format and riverside setting aim to create an intimate environment for both performers and listeners.

Varun Srivastava, Festival Co-Director & Partner, said, “The third edition of Ragas by the River marks a truly meaningful milestone for us. The growing support from audiences, patrons, and partners is deeply encouraging and reaffirms our vision of blending the rich legacy of Indian classical music with luxury hospitality. As we prepare to welcome guests from across India and overseas, we look forward to another year of experiencing the timeless virtuosity of the maestros amidst the majestic landscapes of Corbett National Park.”

“What makes this festival truly unique is its passionately curated, intimate experience – where some of India’s finest classical musicians perform in settings that elevate both artists and audiences, amid the serene beauty of nature and the breathtaking Corbett landscape. The festival is a harmonious confluence of soulful music and the gracious hospitality of The Riverview Retreat & Taj Corbett Resort & Spa. Season 3 is a thoughtfully curated edition, Celebrating Legacies, honouring the legends of yesteryears who have shaped Indian classical and allied genres of our rich musical heritage,” says Vir Srivastava, Festival Director & Promoter.

Opening and Honours

The festival will confer the Ragas by the River Legend Award on Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, while also recognising Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia.

The opening presentation, Sadaa-e-Sarod, will feature a multi-generational ensemble led by Ustad Amjad Ali Khan with Amaan Ali Bangash, Ayaan Ali Bangash, Zohaan and Abeer. A tribute titled Mehfil-e-Yaadgar will honour Mehdi Hasan, Jagjit Singh and Ghulam Ali, performed by Prithvi Gandharv and Meenal Jain.

Featured Performances

Highlights include Remembering the Divas, where Kaushiki Chakraborty will pay tribute to Begum Akhtar, Gauhar Jaan, Noor Jehan, M. S. Subbulakshmi, Kishori Amonkar and Shobha Gurtu.

Parampara will present sitarist Ustad Shahid Parvez and Shakir Khan, representing the Etawah–Imdadkhani gharana.

On the final day, flautist Rakesh Chaurasia will collaborate with percussionist Taufiq Qureshi, reflecting the musical lineage of Ustad Alla Rakha and Ustad Zakir Hussain. The festival will conclude with a curated performance by Hariharan.

Additional Programming

Morning concerts titled The Awakening will be held by the Kosi River, featuring Purbayan Chatterjee and Armaan Khan of the Rampur Sahaswan Gharana in tribute to Rashid Khan.

Late-night sessions will include the Kutle Khan Ensemble, followed by a post-dinner performance by Band A-26. The festival will be hosted by Shekhar Suman and Suchitra Pillai.

Vibhas Prasad, Director, Leisure Hotels Group, said, “Ragas by the River goes beyond being a music festival; it reflects our belief in nurturing and sustaining India’s cultural and natural legacy. By hosting maestros and evolving traditions in the serene landscape of Corbett, we create meaningful, immersive cultural experiences rooted in a sense of place. At the heart of this endeavour lies our continued commitment to heartfelt, award-winning service for every guest.”

Hospitality and Partnerships

Presented by The Riverview Retreat with Taj Corbett Resort & Spa as hospitality partner, the event integrates accommodation and dining with the music programme. Culinary offerings will include regional Kumaoni dishes, Rampuri cuisine and international selections.

TATA AIA Life Insurance and TATA Capital will serve as patrons for the 2026 edition.

Festival Co-Director Varun Srivastava said the third edition reflects continued audience and partner support, with bookings currently nearing capacity.

Dates: 20–22 March 2026
Venue: The Riverview Retreat & Taj Corbett Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand
Packages: Residential packages start from ₹2.25 lakh for three nights / four days (double occupancy)