VHAH FEST 2025 : Discover the Untold Treasures of Rajasthan’s Hidden Heartland Through Art, Culture and Wellness

The VEDAARANYA HERITAGE AND HEALING FESTIVAL (VHAH FEST 2025) opened its doors to cultural and wellness enthusiasts to experience a transformative journey through the untapped beauty of Rajasthan from February 13-17, 2025. For the first time, this festival unveiled the lesser-known landscapes of Ramgarh Shekhawati, a region often overshadowed by Rajasthan’s popular destinations. Nestled in this historic setting, VHAH FEST 2025 celebrates the artistic legacies of the likes of Raja Ravi Varma, Dhurandha and Guru Dutt, combining heritage, artistic expression and rejuvenating wellness activities.

VHAH FEST (Vedaaranya Heritage and Healing Festival) from February 13th to 17th, 2025 was organised by Shruti Foundation. The fest was held in collaboration with Indian Ministry of Tourism, Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, INTACH Shekhawati Chapter and supported by Raj Bhargava Charitable Trust, Neotia Foundation, Le Meridien New Delhi.

The festival also featured classical and folk-dance performances, interactive discussions and workshops on Ayurvedic health treatments, ancient chants and wellness practices. In homage to Guru Dutt, the centennial celebration included the ‘Guru Dutt Moonlight Mehfil’ on February 14th, a magical dinner concert led by Anuraag Poddar, along with insights from Nasreen Munni Kabir and Shruti Nada Poddar on February 15th and 16th, 2025. The festival culminated with a grand musical tribute by Amrish Mishra on February 15th, 2025.

VHAH FEST introduced “The Grand Archway” and the “Mohar Art Gallery” on February 16th, showcasing oleographs by Raja Ravi Varma and M.V. Dhurandhar. The gallery was launched by Chief Guest Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Rama Varma Thampuran, it immersed visitors in their artistic brilliance, as well as the beauty of Shringar Rasa, illustrated in Shekhawati frescoes.

On February 14th, “Music on the Sands” featured classical and folk music performances by Vidushi Sunanda Sharma, Kinkar Lal Bhopas and Jason Donnelly (Artistic Director & Lead of the TADA Dance Company, Northern Ireland), with the enchanting Kalbeliya dancers. The following day, “Immersion in the Rasas of Love” explored the divine love of Radha and Krishna through kathak, dance and storytelling, with performance by Padmashri Geeta Chandran. Adding to the allure of the evening, Vidushi Sujata Mohapatra mesmerized the audience with her breathtaking rendition of Jayadeva’s “Geet Govinda,” a timeless treatise on love, through the sensuous and expressive art of Odissi dance.

Chief Guest Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat ji honourable Minister for Cultural and Tourism, Government of India said, “Shekhawati’s history stands as one of the most unique and illustrious in the world. Its magnificent havelis, rich traditions, grandeur, prosperous commercial enterprises, along with their profound cultural and spiritual depth, offer an unparalleled legacy. For centuries, these havelis were left in neglect, their grandeur locked away in time. The courageous and visionary initiative by Vedaaranya Heritage & Healing Festival, to restore and preserve them is truly commendable and deserving of the highest recognition. This remarkable effort aligns seamlessly with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi: ‘To safeguard our heritage while progressing.’ In this regard, this initiative is a significant and praiseworthy step forward.”

Abhishek Surana, District Collector, Churu, Rajasthan said, “Shekhawati’s heritage is unmatched, and I commend Shruti ji for dedicating herself to preserving it. She’s an inspiration, showing others what can be done with ancestral properties. There is so much history in this part of the state and I’d like to revitalise these havelis by joining forces with VHAH next year.”

Mr. Rama Varma Thampuran (Prince of Kilimanoor Palace and descendant of Raja Ravi Varma and a renowned musician and cultural advocate, who carries forward the legacy of his ancestor) said, “It is an immense privilege to represent my great ancestor, Raja Ravi Varma, at the Vedaaranya Heritage and Healing Festival, a vibrant celebration of Rajasthan’s rich cultural legacy. This festival, a sacred blend of history, art and healing, serves as a powerful reminder of India’s timeless traditions and the profound wisdom that binds us. I commend Shruti Ji for her unwavering dedication in preserving this legacy, creating a space where culture, well-being and artistic brilliance converge. May Vedaaranya continue to inspire, bridging the past with the future, and preserving our rich heritage for generations to come.”

Vidushi Sunanda Sharma said, “It’s an honor to be here in Rajasthan, a place of meditation. I congratulate Shruti for her vision in bringing this festival to life. I’m grateful to sing before you all and remember my Guru, Girija Devi, for her blessings.”

VHAH FEST showcased the exquisite “mohar haveli” mansions adorned with intricate frescoes and vibrant colors. Visitors were witnessed immersing themselves in the region’s rich history through a heritage walk, exploring havelies, temples and chhatris, while enjoying camel cart rides and tuk-tuk tours. Additionally, the festival offered a series of workshops, including heritage restoration, turban-tying, traditional applique with Barmer artisans in collaboration with Banglanatak.com and weaving sessions with craft persons from Shekhawati and Barmer, providing a deeper connection to Rajasthan’s cultural heritage.

VHAH FEST 2025 came forward as a platform to recognize the profound connection between wellness and the human spirit. It was an intricately curated program of rejuvenating experiences, designed to nurture the mind, body and soul. Attendees participated in a Vedic Yagya conducted by Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami and Shruti Nada Poddar, an ancient ritual believed to purify the mind and create a sense of harmony. Expert practitioners from Ramgarh Shekhawati offered a range of Ayurvedic treatments, including soothing massages and rejuvenating therapies. Furthermore, Vidhi Beri, a renowned wellness expert, led an insightful workshop on healing and nutrition, offering a holistic approach to well-being.

Overwhelmed with a rewarding response from her guests, Shruti Nada Poddar (Founder and Managing Trustee, Shruti Foundation) said,” At VHAH FEST 2025, we believe in a holistic approach to well-being. Our curated wellness program offers a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern practices. It was extremely gratifying to co-conduct the Vedic Yagya alongside Acharya Shrivatsa Goswami, an experience that promises to purify the mind and create a sense of inner harmony.”

VHAH FEST 2025 has truly lived up to its promise, successfully bringing the untapped heartland of Rajasthan to the forefront and offering an immersive exploration of the region’s cultural heritage, artistic brilliance and holistic wellness practices. The festival has not only fulfilled its vision but has also laid the groundwork for these once-hidden gems to emerge as mainstream attractions. The festival moves forward with an aspiration to ensure that the beauty and richness of places like Ramgarh Shekhawati continue to captivate and inspire generations to come.