Pune, the ‘Queen of Deccan’ also goes by the moniker ‘Maharashtra’s cultural capital’ and for good reason. The city boasts a proud and longstanding tradition of being a centre of genre-diverse music and prestigious institutions. From Hindustani classical to hip-hop, ghazals to ED and indie, Pune embraces and celebrates all forms artistic and musical expressions and attracts thousands of people from across the country to many of its renowned music festivals.
Yearly music events in Pune speaks to the city’s evolving music scene. Whether it’s the NH7 Weekender with its electrifying beats or the soulful renditions of a piece of classical music at the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, a sea of music festivals in Pune gives testament to the fact that the city is attuned to a whole spectrum of music comprising different styles and genres.
But how did this city become the music capital of Maharashtra in the first place? Let’s dive into a fascinating chapter of history.
Why Pune is the Music Capital of Maharashtra
Pune has a longstanding tradition of celebrating arts and culture, and the appreciation for music is a reflection of that. This city has been home to Indian classical music legends like Pandit Bhimsen Joshi who have put Pune’s music scene on the map. Carrying that legacy forward, there are a number of music festivals in Pune like the International Jazz Mahotsav, Shaniwarwada Dance and Music Festival,Pune Hip-Hop Festival, and others, that attract music lovers from all over the country to the city of Pune. Furthermore, the influx of a large student population and young professionals have also led to a rise in indie bands, fusion music, and experimental performances, making Pune the music capital of Maharashtra.
Top 10 Music Festivals in Pune 2025
A music festival in Pune is a lively occasion where people from diverse walks of life come together to celebrate their love for music. Some of the most renowned music festivals in Pune are:
NH7 Weekender
Hosted since 2010, the NH7 Weekender music festival in Pune has been known as India’s happiest music festival. The event platforms a vibrant mix of national and global artists, indie performers, and other talented individuals who present a genre-diverse celebration of music and culture. The festival also comes with food stalls, immersive arts, and pop-up installations that attract thousands of food lovers and arts connoisseurs to this mega event. The 2025 edition of the NH7 Weekender promises to be even better than any of the previous festivals. Early bird tickets get sold fast, so music enthusiasts ought to keep an eye out when the bookings open!
Tentative Dates: November 2025
Location: Mahalakshmi Lawns, Pune
Genres: Indie, Rock, Hip-Hop, Electronic, Folk
Major Attraction: Multi-stage performances by Indian and international artists
Entry: Paid (₹2,500 – ₹6,000 approx. for a day pass)
Vh1 SuperSonic
The Vh1 SuperSonic music festival in Pune is the one musical extravaganza that attracts the young guns who are mad about electronic music. This high-energy music festival includes an impressive lineup of DJs and indie artists. Global ED music stars like Diplo and Marshmello have enthralled crowds in past events. Food trucks, art installations, fashion pop-ups, and chill zones create an atmosphere that perfectly vibes with Pune’s youth and music travellers from around the world. The tickets to this festival sell out quickly, so music lovers are advised to make their move in advance.
Tentative Dates: February 2025
Location: Mahalaxmi Lawns, Pune
Genres: EDM, Techno, Indie, Hip-Hop
Major Attraction: International DJs, immersive stage design
Entry: Paid (₹2,000 – ₹8,000 per day)
Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav
If one were to experience the epitome of Indian classical music, participating in the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav music festival in Pune is a must. This is a five-day event that features artists and musicians across different genres like thumri, khayal, dhrupad, and instrumental music. Those who love traditional music often make their way to this mesmerising festival that comes with all-night sessions, giving them a spiritual and immersive experience under stars. The bookings start months in advance, so music enthusiasts are advised to keep an eye out for the ticket sales.
Tentative Dates: December 11–15, 2025 (tentative)
Location: New English School Grounds, Ramanbaug
Genres: Hindustani Classical
Major Attraction: India’s top classical performers
Entry: Paid (₹200 – ₹1,500 per day; season passes available)
India Music Summit – Pune Chapter
Another music festival in Pune that caters to the admirers of Indian classical and traditional music genre is the India Music Summit. Although the main event takes place is Jaipur, the festival occasionally hosts events outside the Pink City. From sitar recitals to ghazal nights, audiences can enjoy soulful performances by music maestros at this amazing event. The festival also includes storytelling, workshops, and discussions with artists, which is ideal for those seeking a deeper understanding of classical music.
Tentative Dates: September 2025
Location: Indoor venues or amphitheatres
Genres: Classical, Sufi, Folk, Ghazal
Major Attraction: Legendary musicians, panel discussions
Entry: Paid (₹1,000 – ₹5,000 depending on session)
EVC (Enchanted Valley Carnival) Pop-Up Pune
This is probably one of the most unique music festivals in Pune you ever attend. While the flagship event takes place in Mumbai, the Pune pop-up event features top DJs and indie artists. Apart from enjoying upbeat dance music under starry nights and a camp side backdrop, the event includes yoga sessions, food trucks, adventure zones, and silent discos. This is a music festival that’s ideal for meeting new people and finding a vibrant community of kindred spirits.
Tentative Dates: March 2025
Location: Hilltop or open venue near Pune
Genres: EDM, Trance, Progressive
Major Attraction: Camping + Music Experience
Entry: Paid (₹2,000 – ₹7,000)
Baithak Series by Sawai Gandharva Trust
As the name suggests, the Baithak Series is organised by the Sawai Gandharva Festival. This event in Pune primarily attracts classic music lovers, who enjoy the soulful performances of popular singers and instrumentalists. The event also provides a platform to rising talents in Indian classical music from the city and beyond. For those craving a richer musical experience, attending this festival is a must.
Tentative Dates: August–October 2025 (monthly)
Location: Small auditoriums, cultural halls
Genres: Hindustani Classical
Major Attraction: Intimate performances by maestros
Entry: Often Free or ₹300 – ₹1,000 per event
Pune Jazz & Blues Festival
This jazz and blues event is one of the most popular music festivals in Pune. Jazz artists from all over India and the world gather here to captivate audiences with their performances. Jazz and blues lovers enjoy the jam nights, masterclasses, and cross-cultural synergy that this festival is known for. There are also wine counters and vintage aesthetics that make a trip to this festival worth it!
Tentative Dates: October 2025
Location: Open-air amphitheatres or cultural venues
Genres: Jazz, Blues, Soul
Major Attraction: Global jazz collaborations
Entry: Paid (₹1,000 – ₹3,000)
Sunburn Arena – Pune Edition
For electronic music fans and avid partygoers, attending the Sunburn music festival in Pune is a must. Although the main event happens in Goa, Pune hosts high-arena events that attract thousands of people from across the country. Pyrotechnics, LED visuals, and massive sound setups ensure that the attendees are experience the epitome of EDM. The tickets sell out fast, so party animals need to keep an eye out when the booking starts!
Tentative Dates: December 2025
Location: Deccan College Grounds or open fields
Genres: EDM, House, Trance
Major Attraction: Global DJs, pyrotechnics
Entry: Paid (₹2,000 – ₹5,000 for general entry)
Indie March – Pune Chapter
Homegrown indie rockers, synth-pop artists, and genre-blending musicians flock to Indie March music festival in Pune. Although it’s primarily an underground and independent music event that started in Bengaluru, the festival has Pune as a key stop. This event is a great platform for up-and-coming artists to showcase their talent, while the audiophiles and cultural explorers can feast their eyes on pop-up shops and local arts installations.
Tentative Dates: March 2025
Location: The Mills or antiSOCIAL Pune
Genres: Indie Rock, Electro-Pop, Alternative
Major Attraction: Up-and-coming indie bands & quirky art
Entry: Paid (₹500 – ₹1,500)
Echoes of Earth – Pune Edition
Originally hosted in Bengaluru, Echoes of Earth is a green music festival that has a pop-up edition in Pune. This event features stages that are made of recycled materials and spreads the message eco-friendly practices. International artists converge at this mega event and give the audience a taste of genre-diverse music spanning jazz, folk, tribal, and electronic. There are also art installations, workshops, and green tech exhibits that add another dimension to the amazing music experience.
Tentative Dates: April 2025
Location: To be announced
Genres: World Music, Fusion, Jazz, Electronica
Major Attraction: Sustainability-focused music and art
Entry: Paid (₹1,500 – ₹4,000 per day)
What to Expect at Pune Music Festivals
A music festival in Pune promises a transformative experience with soulful music and a feeling of community. Different music styles and genres enthral the fans while newcomers to the festival often get to listen to the kind of music they normally don’t tune into. Apart from that, music festivals in Pune are also a great venue to explore local arts, food, and culture.
Whether you go to an ED music festival like Vh1 SuperSonic to set the dance floor ablaze or want to spend an evening under the stars listening to Hindustani classicals at the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, attending such an event promises an unforgettable experience and leaves you with a lifetime of memories that you cannot wait to relive every year!
Different Music Genres – Classical, Jazz, Rock, and More
Attending a music festival in Pune exposes you to all kinds of music styles and genres. Those who love Indian classical music can venture into the uncharted territory of jazz, while blues and rock lovers can get inspired by ghazals sung by legends and maestros of classical music. They can also drop by their favourite music festivals in Pune and have a gala time meeting new people, jamming with other attendees, and spend an evening or two that they’ll cherish forever.
Cultural and Artistic Performances
Music festivals in Pune are the perfect occasion to see your favourite artists perform live. Whether you want to see global artists and DJs or find out about the up-and-coming indie artists who are going to make it big, visiting a music event like that offers you a one-of-a-kind experience. At festivals like this, you also get to meet kindred spirits who share your passion in music and form lifelong connections.
Family-Friendly and Youth-Oriented Events
While a music festival in Pune may appear to be the perfect venue for youngsters to watch their favourite artists perform live, there are quite a few events that attract a wider audience. For instance, families attending a music festival like the Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav can help inculcate an appreciation for Indian classical music in the minds of young people. On the other hand, music festivals like Echoes of Earth can deliver the message of environmental consciousness to the next generation while they enjoy great music and amazing performances.
How to Attend Pune’s Music Festivals
Attending a music festival in Pune is a chance to make memories for a lifetime, so you have to make sure that you don’t miss an event. You can start by keeping an eye out on the official website and social media handles of the music festival that you wish to attend. Watch out for VIP and early bird passes that are available as and when the ticket sales start. Furthermore, plan your transport and chalk out the details of getting to the venue in time. It is also advisable to pack essentials like your ID, water bottle, phone charger, power bank, and other important items that you might need during your trip. It’s best if you share your location with family and friends in case of emergencies.
Ticket Availability and Booking Details
If you’re planning to go to a music festival in Pune, you need to check out online ticket booking sites to find out when the booking starts. Watch out for early bird offers, VIP tickets, and special deals that are available on relevant sites. It’s prudent to book your tickets early to avoid last minute rush. For popular music festivals like NH7 Weekender or the Vh1 SuperSonic, tickets sell out fast, so keep an eye out for the bookings to start.
Best Time to Visit for Music Lovers
Being the music capital of Maharashtra, Pune hosts various music festivals throughout the year. However, it’s best to visit Pune between the months of November and February as popular music festivals like NH7 Weekender and Vh1 SuperSonic usually take place during this time. However, there are jazz, indie, and Indian classic music festivals that are also held across different venues in Pune. During these months, the weather also remains pleasant for outdoor activities, which adds to the overall experience.
FAQs on Pune Music Festivals
What types of music festivals happen in Pune?
There are genre-diverse music festivals in Pune that take place throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of ED music or Hindustani classical, Pune hosts all kinds of music events that caters to your taste. Festivals like NH7 Weekender and Vh1 SuperSonic are popular with ED music lovers, while Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav hosts maestros of Indian classical music.
Are Pune music festivals family-friendly?
Yes, there certainly are music festivals in Pune that are family-friendly. For instance, Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav includes performances by Indian classical music maestros who captivate the audience with their soulful renditions. It’s a five-day event featuring musicians across different genres like thumri, khayal, dhrupad, and instrumental music.
How can I book tickets for Pune’s music festivals?
You can visit the official websites and social media handles of music festivals to find out when the tickets sales go live. There are VIP and early bird passes that are given out, so you can keep an eye out for special offers as well. Apart from that, you can also check out popular online ticket booking sites for event and booking details.
Which is the most popular music festival in Pune?
There are several popular music festivals in Pune. For example, NH7 Weekender and Vh1 SuperSonic are popular with ED music lovers, while Pune Jazz & Blues Festival and Sunburn Arena are also on the top of the list of Gen Z and millennial music lovers of the city.
Are Pune music festivals free or ticketed?
Most music festivals in Pune come with an entry fee. A day pass for an event like NH7 Weekender can cost you from ₹2,500 to ₹6,000. However, the Baithak Series is organised by the Sawai Gandharva Festival can cost you as low as ₹300.
Are there any classical music festivals in Pune?
Yes, there are. The Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav is one of the most popular classical music festivals in Pune. It’s a five-day event that features music maestros from across different genres like thumri, khayal, dhrupad, and instrumental music. There are other classical music festivals like India Music Summit that are also hosted in Pune.
Can I buy tickets for the Pune music festival online?
Yes, you can. You can go to the official website of various music festivals and book your ticket online. These websites also give out VIP and early bird passes, so it’s best to keep an eye out for these offers. You can also visit online ticket booking websites to buy tickets for a music event you plan to attend.
What is the name of Pune music festival?
There are several music festivals that are held in Pune throughout the year. NH7 Weekender, Vh1 SuperSonic, Pune Jazz & Blues Festival, Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav, and Sunburn Arena are some of the most popular music festivals in Pune. November to February is the best time to visit Pune and attend some of the best music events in Pune.
What is the music culture in Pune?
Pune is known as the music capital of Maharashtra. Whether it’s Indian classical music, ED music, jazz, blues, or indie, Pune hosts genre-diverse music festivals throughout the year that caters to audiences with different taste in music. NH7 Weekender, Vh1 SuperSonic, Pune Jazz & Blues Festival, and Sawai Gandharva Bhimsen Mahotsav are some of the most popular music festivals in Pune.
