Jashn-e-Rekhta Dubai, largest celebration of Urdu, returns next month

Dubai: Jashn-e-Rekhta Dubai, the world’s largest celebration of the Urdu language, literature, and culture, is set to make a triumphant return next month featuring more than 50 artists and speakers from the UAE, India, Pakistan, and other countries.

Following the immense success of last year’s edition, this two-day festival at Zabeel Park on February 1 and 2, promises to be an even grandeur affair. People from all walks of life can look forward to a rich array of performances, interactive sessions, and cultural experiences.

Headlining the event are celebrities and literary luminaries such as Saba Qamar, Imran Abbas, Javed Akhtar, Zehra Nigah, and Samina Peerzada, who will engage in thought-provoking discussions and recitations. The festival will take place across two stages, Mehfil Khana and Dayaar-e-Izhaar. Other highlights include a grand mushaira – a gathering of contemporary poets from India and Pakistan, a women’s Sufi qawwali ensemble, and musical performances by renowned artists such as Piyush Mishra, Shafqat Amanat Ali, and Ali Sethi.

Sanjiv Saraf, founder of the Rekhta Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting regional languages, said that the event is a tribute to the “timeless beauty” of the Urdu language.

In addition to the performances, guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a selection of regional and cultural cuisines at the Aiwan-e-Zaiqa Food Festival. They can also explore a treasure trove of books, crafts, and literary gems.

Unique experiences include a life-sized hologram of the legendary poet Mirza Ghalib, AI-powered Dial-e-Poet technology that allows attendees to interact with the voices of iconic poets, and fun, educational games to test one’s poetic skills. Visitors will also have the chance to write their names in Urdu or create their own poetic masterpieces.

Huma Khalil, trustee and creative director of the Rekhta Foundation, highlighted that the event is set to be a vibrant celebration of everything that makes Urdu so special.

“We’ve put together an incredible lineup of poets, musicians, and performers, each bringing their unique voice to the stage. From poetry that moves the soul to music that captures the heart, we’ve designed an experience that connects people to the beauty of the language in a way that’s fresh and exciting. It’s not just about showcasing talent; it’s about creating an atmosphere where Urdu can be experienced, felt, and celebrated by everyone, no matter where they come from.”

After its international debut in London in 2023 and a successful inaugural edition in Dubai last year, Jashn-e-Rekhta returns with great anticipation. RAKBANK Elite is the title sponsor of the event, which aims to bring the soul of Urdu to the heart of Dubai.