July 17: The curtains rose on the Silver Jubilee edition of Khazana – A Festival of Ghazals with a press conference held in Mumbai on July 15, 2026, officially unveiling the festival’s landmark 25th edition. Set to take place on July 24 and 25, 2026, at the Trident, Nariman Point, the festival promises two unforgettable evenings celebrating the timeless beauty of ghazals and soulful music. This year’s Silver Jubilee edition will feature an illustrious line-up of acclaimed artists, including Anup Jalota, Hariharan, Vishal Bhardwaj, Rekha Bhardwaj, Sonu Nigam, Javed Ali, Sudeep Banerji, Madhubanti Bagchi, and Sunil Mungee, bringing together some of the country’s most celebrated musical voices for a grand tribute to India’s rich musical heritage.
The announcement was made in the presence of eminent personalities from the music and entertainment fraternity, including Anup Jalota,Vishal Bhardwaj, Rekha Bhardwaj, Talat Aziz, and Anup Soni, who came together to celebrate the festival’s enduring legacy. This year’s line-up features an exceptional roster of artists, including Hariharan, Sonu Nigam, Javed Ali, Sudeep Banerji, Madhubanti Bagchi, and Sunil Mungee, making the Silver Jubilee edition one of the festival’s most anticipated celebrations yet.
A key highlight of the press conference was the conclusion of the 9th edition of the Khazana Hungama Artist Aloud Talent Hunt, an initiative that continues to provide aspiring singers and musicians with a national platform to showcase their talent. The winners were felicitated during the event, reflecting Khazana‘s continued commitment to encouraging emerging artists and ensuring that the rich tradition of ghazal music is carried forward by a new generation of performers.
Reflecting on the festival’s enduring legacy, Anup Jalota said,
“Khazana has always been much more than a music festival. For twenty-five years, it has brought together artists and audiences through the timeless language of ghazals while supporting a noble cause. It is an honour to be part of this Silver Jubilee edition, and I hope this legacy continues to inspire future generations of musicians and music lovers alike.”
Speaking about the significance of the festival, Vishal Bhardwaj said,
“Ghazals have a unique ability to capture emotions with remarkable simplicity and depth. Festivals like Khazana play an important role in keeping this beautiful art form alive while introducing it to newer audiences. Being part of this milestone celebration is truly special, and I’m looking forward to sharing this stage with some of the country’s finest artists.”
Recalling her father’s vision for the festival, Nayaab Udhas, daughter of the late Padma Bhushan Pankaj Udhas, said,
“Khazana was my father’s dream, a festival that celebrated music while making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Seeing it complete twenty-five years is incredibly emotional for our family. We are grateful to every artist, partner, and supporter who has helped carry his vision forward, ensuring that his legacy continues to touch lives through both music and compassion.”
The festival also announced Hungama Digital Media as the Presenting Partner. Through this association, Hungama OTT strengthens its commitment to celebrating India’s rich musical heritage while supporting platforms that promote meaningful artistic experiences and connect audiences with exceptional live entertainment.
Beyond the music, Khazana has remained steadfast in its commitment to social impact. Continuing a tradition established over the past twenty-five years, proceeds from the festival’s donor passes will support the Cancer Patients Aid Association and the Parents Association Thalassemic Unit Trust helping provide care and assistance to those in need. Conceived under the vision of the late Padma Bhushan Pankaj Udhas, the festival has evolved into a unique cultural institution where music serves a larger humanitarian purpose.
As Khazana marks its Silver Jubilee, it continues to be much more than a music festival it is a celebration of artistry, heritage, and compassion. For 25 years, the festival has brought together legendary maestros, emerging talent, and music lovers in support of a cause that has remained at its heart since inception. While honouring the unparalleled legacy of Pankaj Udhas, this year’s edition will celebrate the extraordinary musical journey of Asha Bhosle, acknowledging her immense contribution to Indian music and her enduring influence across generations. Commemorating this milestone, Khazana will also pay tribute to the legendary artistes who have shaped its remarkable journey over the years, including Rajendra and Neena Mehta, Bhupinder Singh and Mitali Singh, the late Pankaj Udhas, Anup Jalota, Talat Aziz, Hariharan, Penaz Masani, and Rajkumar Rizvi, honouring their invaluable contributions to the festival’s enduring legacy.