The Southbank Centre has announced the first wave of programming for South Asian Sounds 2025, an electrifying festival that celebrates the musical heritage of the South Asian diaspora while spotlighting contemporary UK-based artists. Running from 15–18 May 2025, the event promises an extraordinary fusion of traditional and modern sounds across iconic venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Purcell Room.
Building on the success of its 2024 debut, South Asian Sounds aims to showcase the rich and varied traditions of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi music while embracing bold collaborations that bridge cultures and genres. Presented in partnership with Asian Arts Agency, Baluji Music Foundation, Ragatip, and Readipop, the festival reflects the Southbank Centre’s commitment to championing diverse creative communities.
A star-studded lineup
The festival will feature an impressive array of talent:
- Thursday 15 May: Multi-instrumentalist Baluji Shrivastav OBE and his ensemble, Re-Orient, will deliver a spellbinding blend of Latin, Indian, and jazz music at the Purcell Room. Expect a vibrant showcase of classical Indian instruments, intricate rhythms, and captivating dance.
- Friday 16 May: Acclaimed composer Sumeet Chopra will explore the evolution of Punjabi music in a live performance at the Queen Elizabeth Hall. Joined by UK Bhangra star Jaz Dhami, the evening promises a fusion of timeless melodies and cutting-edge electronic sounds, presented by Readipop.
- Saturday 17 May: Renowned sitar virtuoso Roopa Panesar will perform her acclaimed 2023 album ATMA (The Soul) with an 8-piece ensemble, blending Indian classical music with Western instrumentation. Meanwhile, Bollywood icon Osman Mir will light up the Royal Festival Hall with the Third Culture Collective Orchestra, celebrating Gujarat’s folk traditions with orchestral flair.
- Sunday 18 May: The festival closes with the Rizwan Muazzam Qawwali Group, heirs to the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, delivering an electrifying performance of devotional Sufi music at the Royal Festival Hall.
A platform for cultural legacy and modern innovation
Commenting on the festival, Southbank Centre Artistic Director Mark Ball said: “The Southbank Centre has long celebrated the diverse musical traditions of South Asia. South Asian Sounds continues this legacy, offering a platform for both heritage and innovation. It’s a privilege to present such exceptional talent to audiences.”
What to expect
Audiences can anticipate an immersive experience that spans classical, folk, and contemporary music, paired with mesmerizing live performances. Further programming will be announced in Spring 2025.
Tickets go on sale to Southbank Centre members on Tuesday 21 January 2025 and to the general public on Wednesday 22 January 2025.
