'Always an Honour': Mick Jagger Glows Over Jodhpur RIFF Visit
Rolling Stones legend Mick Jagger expresses his love for India after attending the Jodhpur RIFF music festival in Rajasthan.
Rock and roll royalty has once again found a connection with the mystical lands of Rajasthan. Mick Jagger, the legendary frontman of The Rolling Stones, has taken to social media to express his deep appreciation for India following his participation in the Jodhpur RIFF (Rajasthan International Folk Festival).
Sharing a series of photographs on his official Instagram account, the music icon appeared in a relaxed avatar, sporting a white T-shirt, blue trousers, and a sunhat, set against the stunning traditional backdrop of Jodhpur. In a heartfelt caption, Jagger wrote, "Always an honour to visit India as a patron for Jodhpur RIFF Music Festival."
A Celebration of Roots and Rhythm
Jagger's visit coincided with the landmark 20th edition of the Jodhpur RIFF, a prestigious five-day roots music extravaganza that took place from October 22 to 26, 2026. The festival was thoughtfully timed around the full moon of Sharad Purnima, adding a celestial charm to the proceedings.
The event transformed the surroundings of Jodhpur's majestic Mehrangarh Fort and the serene Jaswant Thada into a global stage. The 2026 edition was characterized by its atmospheric sunrise and sunset performances, fostering a unique blend of international collaborations and diverse musical styles.
Global Talents on a Heritage Stage
The festival's lineup was a testament to its global reach, featuring a wide array of international artists, including:
- DOBBY: A musician blending Filipino and Murrawarri influences.
- Killabeatmaker: A producer hailing from Colombia.
- Karolina Cicha: A talented vocalist from Poland.
- Printz Board: The multi-Grammy-winning producer.
Bringing the festivities to a soulful close, Punjabi singer Manpreet Singh delivered a captivating performance at the break of dawn.
Preserving the Soul of Rajasthan
The Rajasthan International Folk Festival is more than just a musical event; it is a not-for-profit initiative managed by the Mehrangarh Museum Trust. Recognizing its cultural significance, UNESCO has endorsed the festival as a "Peoples’ Platform for Creativity and Sustainable Development."
The core mission of the Jodhpur RIFF is to safeguard traditional musical heritage. It provides a global platform for regional folk artists, specifically shining a spotlight on the rich musical legacies of the Langa and Manganiyar communities of Rajasthan, ensuring their art reaches audiences worldwide.
While HH Gaj Singh II of Marwar-Jodhpur serves as the chief patron of the festival, Mick Jagger continues to lend his global influence and support as the international patron, bridging the gap between Western rock and Eastern folk traditions.