ARTISTS LINEUP
BFR SOUND SYSTEM
The iconic BFR Sound System will be traveling all the way from Delhi to Nanadisa village by road to play at The BiG BANG Festival. One of a handful of hand-built Jamaican sound systems in India, the Soundsystem brings a unique musical experience with custom speakers that emphasize deep sub-bass frequencies and have the power to literally vibrate bodies.
Led by Selector and MC Delhi Sultanate, who is known for his passionate commitment to both music and activism, BFR is more than just a sound system; it’s a cultural force, bringing reggae, dub, and roots to new spaces. Accompanied by MCs and trombonist Chie Nishikori, BFR Sound System will play on both days of the festival, blending sounds that resonate with the spirit of community and connection.
Delhi Sultanate’s photo courtesy of : @jhankritahuja
TIPRITI KHARBANGAR
Lil Mama Tips aka Tipriti Kharbangar needs no introduction. She has had a stellar career in music spanning two decades receiving numerous accolades and awards along the way.
Her blues is powerful and draws from her Khasi roots. She has shared the stage with countless legends like Buddy Guy, Carlos Santana, Sheryl Youngblood to name a few.
At The BiG BANG Festival she will play a live acoustic set as well as joining BFR Sound System.
RAS MAN MAN
We are super excited to host Ras ManMan, the notorious Rastaman from Shillong. When the ace keyboard and melodica player is not playing with his band DewDrops, Many Roots Ensemble or Blue Temptation you may find him on the road with BFR Sound System driving the system to the four corners of the country and vibing to dub and reggae riddims on his melodica. Catch him with the BFR Soundsystem on both days of the festival.
AND MANY MORE ARTISTS!
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CHIE NISHIKORI
We are thrilled to welcome Chie Nishikori to The BiG BANG Festival, where she will join forces with BFR Sound System. @chie.nishikori will play trombone and trumpet on BFR Sound System on both days. Having live horns adds power and vitality to sound system sessions. Since her childhood in Japan, Chie has played in brass bands and trained under one of the most reputed conductors and orchestra maestros in the country, Mr. Takahashi Kenichi. She’s won awards for her playing and has toured all over the world. India has been her home since 2012 where she plays with her bands Be Right Back, Chizai, and Bollyjazz. Expect an eclectic and soulful performance alongside BFR Sound System!
MC MAWALI
Aklesh Sutar, better known as MC Mawali, has been a close friend and collaborator of BFR Sound System since its inception. A Mumbai-based rapper and activist, he uses his music to champion social and cultural preservation, often challenging the influence of westernization in India. Performing in both Hindi and Marathi, he represents the authentic voice of India’s youth, blending activism with artistry.
@mc_mawali is also deeply committed to preserving indigenous art, music, and culture. He has worked closely with the Warli tribe of Mumbai’s Aarey forest, helping them create protest songs to combat deforestation. His vision is to inspire unity through Desi Hip Hop, breaking down societal barriers.
Catch MC Mawali, as he performs with BFR Sound System at The BiG BANG Festival!
AHIMXA
Ahimxa is a cult grunge band hailing from Haflong, Assam, that first emerged in the late 90s as a high school project. Led by David Haolai, the band drew inspiration from the grunge movement and became early proponents of the DIY ethic in the region. They wrote original songs, recorded them on cassette tapes, and navigated the challenges of growing up in a society where punk and grunge music were often frowned upon. Despite facing difficulties, Ahimxa’s passion for their sound never wavered. Though the band went defunct as members pursued different careers, their music endured. After 20 years, Ahimxa is making a powerful comeback to prove that grunge is still alive and kicking!