Goa is not just about EDM festivals, it’s also home to a diverse array of music that touches the soul. One festival that has stemmed from the desire to create a space where music transcends entertainment and becomes a tool for healing, mindfulness, and creative exploration is Vivaan.
Bringing the harmonious and resonant sounds of the handpan to the shores of Goa, Vivaan, India’s premier Handpan and World Music Festival will take place across three days at the Aralea Beach Resort, Morjim this weekend, offering an immersive experience blending soul stirring music, transformative workshops and holistic wellness practices.
Led by Dipak Thakkar, a multi-instrumentalist, handpan player, and founder of Handpan India, alongside a team of passionate musicians and creatives, the festival began in 2017 and since then has evolved into a globally-recognised event within the handpan and world music community.
“This is our 9th consecutive edition making Vivaan the only festival in the world to have achieved this milestone in the handpan space,” says Aditya Mudugal, who handles Marketing and Communications for the event.
With its serene beaches, artistic energy and deep-rooted connection with spirituality and music, Goa was the natural choice for the festival. In fact, apart from one, all the past editions have been held against the State’s perfect backdrop.
“At its core a stirring movement, Vivaan isn’t just another music festival but a celebration the mesmerizing and meditative instrument. What sets it apart is its deeply immersive and spiritual essence, where music is not just performed but experienced as a journey of connection and self-discovery,” adds Aditya.
Over three days, the festival will unfold in a carefully-curated flow, designed to immerse attendees in music, movement and mindfulness. There will be live performances of over 50 global and emerging artists spanning five unique genres from handpan melodies to Indian classical, tribal beats, world fusion and gypsy rhythms.
“The festival will begin with yoga and meditation mornings, designed to align the mind, body, and breath, before diving in the music. Attendees will then be guided through sound healing and breath work sessions, where the frequencies of the handpan are combined with ancient healing techniques,” Aditya explains.
Movement and flow arts workshops, including ecstatic dance, Kalaripayattu, and fire flow, will let participants express themselves and embody the energy of the music. The fusion of wellness practices and sound will provide a transformative experience, allowing attendees to not just listen to the music, but to truly feel its vibrations on a deeper level.
“Beyond music, we are committed to supporting Goa-based bands and independent musicians, ensuring that local talent finds a stage alongside international artistes. We also actively collaborate with local vendors and businesses, boosting Goa’s hospitality sector,” shares Aditya.
While festival passes cover entry to performances and workshops, accommodation and food packages are available at an additional cost. Vivaan has partnered with three premium resorts Aralea Beach Resort, Whitewood Resort and Koko Maya to offer seamless stay options.
Beyond the performances, the festival is an interactive experience connecting with the music, oneself, and a like-minded community.
“The hypnotic tones of the handpan will foster a deeper appreciation for sound and silence, cultivating an inner stillness that’s rare to find in everyday life. In fact many come as curious listeners only to leave the festival as handpan enthusiasts, flow artists, or even musicians-in-the-making” Aditya says promising the festival to be unlike anything seen before in India.
So come with an open heart, and let the handpan guide you into a world where music is meditation, rhythm is connection, and every note tells a story, you don’t want to miss this!
DETAILS
WHERE: Aralea Beach Resort, Morjim, Goa
WHEN: February 14, 15 and 16, 2025
TIMINGS: 7am to 11pm daily
FESTIVAL PASSES: Available online at vivaanfestival.com
PRICING: Varies based on pass type (single-day, full festival) and optional accommodation add-ons