Inaugural Edition Showcases India’s Artistic Heritage at Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL)’s iconic Taj brand has launched Ninaad, an exclusive cultural celebration that seamlessly weaves together performance art, haute couture, and culinary excellence. The inaugural three-day edition was hosted at the legendary Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, one of Taj’s distinguished Living Legacy properties.
Long recognized as a custodian of Indian heritage, Taj conceived Ninaad as a landmark initiative to honor the nation’s artistic traditions through meticulously curated experiences. The exclusive gathering brought together cultural luminaries, connoisseurs, and distinguished guests for an immersive journey through India’s rich artistic tapestry, set against the majestic backdrop of the former royal residence.
The celebration commenced with a mesmerizing sarod recital by the legendary duo Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, whose evocative musical performance set an elegant tone for the three-day cultural confluence. The opening evening continued with “A Royal Feast Under the Stars,” an exceptional culinary showcase crafted by the Master Chefs of Rambagh Palace. Presented on the expansive Mughal Lawns, the feast highlighted Rajasthan’s diverse gastronomic heritage, featuring regional specialties and time-honored recipes that reflect the state’s royal culinary traditions.
The literary arts were represented through a stirring performance by celebrated poet Shailesh Lodha, whose verses wove together wit, wisdom, and emotional depth, creating moments of profound reflection for attendees. Lodha’s recitation demonstrated the enduring power of Hindi poetry to connect contemporary audiences with India’s literary heritage.
The celebration reached its crescendo with an exclusive couture showcase by renowned fashion designer Anamika Khanna. Staged within the palace’s storied halls and courtyards, the presentation featured Khanna’s signature blend of traditional Indian craftsmanship and contemporary design sensibility. The couture showcase transformed the historic venue into a living canvas where fashion became an extension of the palace’s architectural grandeur.
The evening concluded with an elaborate seven-course sit-down dinner, accompanied by an enchanting performance by The Bombay Choir. This finale brought together gastronomic artistry and musical excellence, offering guests a multi-sensory conclusion to the day’s celebrations. Throughout the three-day event, eminent guests and cultural luminaries gathered to experience and honor India’s artistic traditions.
Ninaad represents more than a cultural event; it embodies Taj’s enduring commitment to preserving and showcasing India’s cultural richness through thoughtfully designed experiences. The initiative aligns with the brand’s historical role as a steward of the nation’s heritage, creating platforms where traditional art forms can be experienced in settings that honor their historical context.
Taj operates the world’s largest portfolio of palace properties, spanning iconic locations across Udaipur, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Gwalior, Hyderabad, Varanasi, and Mumbai. These properties, many of them former royal residences, represent living repositories of Indian architectural heritage and royal traditions. Through initiatives like Ninaad, Taj reinforces its commitment to conserving this cultural grandeur while making it accessible to contemporary audiences.
The brand’s intrinsic connection to India’s historical narrative positions it uniquely to create experiences that authentically represent the nation’s artistic legacy. By hosting Ninaad at Rambagh Palace, Taj leveraged the property’s royal heritage to create an atmosphere where contemporary artistic expressions and traditional forms could coexist and complement one another.
Looking ahead, Taj has announced plans to continue Ninaad as a recurring celebration, with future editions planned across its palace portfolio. Each edition will feature unique programming that celebrates timeless artistry and storytelling, ensuring that India’s cultural traditions remain vibrant and relevant for future generations.
The success of the inaugural Ninaad edition demonstrates growing interest in curated cultural experiences that offer depth, authenticity, and exclusivity. As luxury travel increasingly emphasizes meaningful engagement with local culture and heritage, initiatives like Ninaad position Taj at the forefront of experiential luxury hospitality.
