MBF2025: Global Blues icons set Mumbai swaying at Asia’s biggest blues celebration

Mumbai witnessed a spectacular weekend of blues as the 13th edition of the Mahindra Blues Festival (MBF) 2025, in association with The Times of India, took centerstage at the iconic Mehboob Studios on February 8 and 9. Touted as Asia’s largest blues celebration, the festival drew an enthusiastic crowd, with fans swaying to soulful tunes across eight electrifying performances while indulging in a variety of especially curated gourmet delights at the decked up 83-year-old venue.

Grammy-winning artiste Ruthie Foster, delivered powerful performances on both days

The event showcased how deeply blues music, a genre rooted in rural American communities, has resonated with Mumbai’s music aficionados. This year’s festival featured an impressive lineup of international blues legends, including Grammy-winning artist Ruthie Foster, who delivered powerful performances on both days. Originally scheduled to perform only once, Foster took the stage on both days due to 15-year-old guitarist Taj Farrant’s unforeseen absence. Her commanding vocals and masterful guitar skills left the audience in awe.

Kanchan Daniel kicked off the event on Day 1

MBF2025 debutant Megan Murray kickstarted day 2

Local talent also shone at the festival, with Mumbai’s Kanchan Daniel kicking off the event on Day 1, while MBF debutant Megan Murray captivated audiences on Day 2.

The festival’s ‘Blues in Schools’ initiative saw young musicians from The Beatz Crew (Kanakia International School) and the Nanhi Kali Choir, comprising girls from underprivileged backgrounds, perform at the Garden Stage on the second day, earning applause.

One of the festival’s biggest highlights was the Australian duo, The Teskey Brothers, who delivered a mesmerizing blend of vintage and contemporary blues. Josh Teskey’s extraordinary guitar work, complemented by Sam Teskey’s soulful voice, left the audience spellbound. Another standout moment was the performance by The John Blue Ensemble, winners of the Band Hunt competition, who had the crowd grooving to their energetic set at the Garden Stage on Day 1.

Robert Randolph, the final act of the evening and of the season

The grand finale featured pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph, a revered name in blues and gospel music, who previously performed at MBF in 2012. Randolph and his band closed the festival on a high note, enthralling the crowd with their unique fusion of blues and African-American gospel traditions.