Jaipur Literature Festival Revives Kabir, Meera and Gorakhnath’s Veena Vaani

At the Jaipur Literature Festival, the sacred tradition of Veena-based bhajan singing resonated powerfully as the new generation of artists presented the timeless verses of Sant Kabir, Meera Bai, and Gorakhnath. The spiritually charged performances offered audiences a rare immersion into India’s Bhakti heritage while highlighting the urgent need to preserve this ancient musical form.

Kavita & Narsingh perform traditional devotional folk music, featuring harmonium and a string instrument, with colourful cultural attire enhancing the lively atmosphere.

A Mini Vani Utsav at Jaipur Literature Festival

Held at Hotel Clarks Amer, Jaipur, one of the key venues of the Jaipur Literature Festival, the session took the shape of a Mini Vani Utsav, curated with the vision of previewing Vani Utsav 2026. Artists from Barmer travelled specially for this presentation, transforming the literary platform into a living satsang that captivated both Indian and international audiences.

Thar’s Young Voice Kavita Potaliya Leads the Sacred Presentation

Renowned young Veena bhajan singer Kavita Potaliya opened the performance with Sant Kabir’s composition “Aisa Aisa Ram Ras Piyo Mere Bhai”. Her deep, resonant Rajasthani voice drew listeners into the spiritual rhythm of Ram Naam. She followed it with “Jobaniyo Jaato Rahyo, Ab Aayi Budhape Ri Vaar”, a profound reflection on the four stages of human life, which received appreciation across generations.

At the Jaipur Literature Festival, young artists revived the sacred Veena Vaani of Kabir, Meera, and Gorakhnath, offering a glimpse of the upcoming Vani Utsav 2026.

Collective Musical Excellence on the Veena

Veena artist Ganesh Kumar Bosiya enthralled the audience with his soulful rendition of “Vaari Jaaun”, while noted musician Narsingh Bankoliya provided sensitive musical support that elevated the performances. Together, the ensemble reaffirmed the Veena as a powerful medium for spiritual storytelling within the Jaipur Literature Festival ecosystem.

Ganesh Kumar Bosiya passionately sings the "Vaari Jaaun" bhajan at JLF, accompanied by vibrant traditional instruments.

Preserving a Thousand-Year-Old Veena Bhajan Tradition

The Veena-Vaani tradition, rooted in India’s Bhakti movement, carries the philosophical teachings of saints such as Kabir, Meera, Dadu, and Gorakhnath. Despite its cultural depth, this heritage is now on the brink of extinction due to declining practitioners and limited youth engagement. Platforms like Jaipur Literature Festival play a crucial role in reconnecting contemporary audiences with this endangered tradition.

Two Decades of Cultural Conservation Through Vani Utsav

For over 25 years, Gramin Vikas Evam Chetna Sansthan and Ruma Devi Foundation have worked relentlessly to preserve and promote Veena bhajan culture. Year-round training, satsangs, and recordings are conducted at their Barmer campus. The annual Vani Utsav, held every 29–30 March, features 36 hours of uninterrupted bhajan performances by hundreds of artists and draws thousands of devotees from across India.

A vibrant gathering at Vani Utsav in Barmer, featuring a large audience enjoying a cultural performance under the illuminated night sky.

Vani Utsav 2026: A Cultural Milestone Ahead

The Jaipur Literature Festival performance served as a spiritual prelude to Vani Utsav 2026, where artists are honoured with the Bhanji Smriti Marwar Bhajni Award, prize money exceeding INR 5 lakh, and traditional Veena instruments. The festival stands as a national movement to safeguard India’s intangible cultural heritage for future generations.