Music, Rain and a Decade of Heart: Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026 Celebrates a Milestone

The two-day festival Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival (KRBF) delivered an unforgettable musical journey in the hills, kicking off with high-energy sets from Rear Admiral Nirmala Kannan, Prince and Mansa Jimmy, Sharmji & The Happy Factory, Shrey Tandan, True Blue, Sanjeeta Bhattacharya and Indian Ocean leaving the community with a lingering spirit of live music and mountain magic.

True Blue performing at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

The 10th edition of the Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival (KRBF) held at Baikunth Resort in Kasauli on 3rd and 4th April concluded on a high note, bringing together music lovers, artists and supporters for two days of soulful performances and shared purpose in the scenic hills of Kasauli. Despite unexpected showers on Day 1, the spirit of the festival remained unwavering, with audiences and artists coming together with the same energy and enthusiasm, and carrying it seamlessly.

Nirmala Kannan at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

Organised by Genesis Foundation, in association with 1842 Kasauli, this milestone edition celebrated a decade of the festival alongside 25 years of the Foundation’s mission to save little hearts. The festival witnessed an enthusiastic footfall of over 450+ attendees, with audiences coming together in support of a larger cause, reinforcing the festival’s purpose-led ethos.

Set against the serene backdrop of Baikunth Resort, the two-day festival featured a diverse mix of performances across genres including rock, indie, blues and contemporary Indian music.

Day 1 saw engaging performances by Rear Admiral Nirmala Kannan, Sharmji & The Happy Factory, Prince and Mansa Jimmy, setting the tone for an energetic opening day filled with music and community spirit.

Day 2 brought the festival to a powerful close with performances by Shrey Tandan, True Blue, Sanjeeta Bhattacharya and Indian Ocean, leaving audiences with a memorable live music experience in the hills.

Indian Ocean at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

The intimate setting of KRBF once again enabled a deeper connection between artists and audiences, creating an atmosphere that was both immersive and engaging. Over the two days, attendees experienced not just live music, but a strong sense of community and shared purpose.

Sharmaji and The Happy Factory performing  at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

More than a music festival, KRBF continues to stand for a greater cause. Proceeds from the festival will go towards supporting medical treatment for critically ill, underprivileged children suffering from Congenital Heart Defects (CHD), helping them access life-saving surgeries and critical care.

Sangeeta Bhattacharya performing  at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

Over the past 25 years, Genesis Foundation has supported the treatment of over 5400 children across India, reaffirming its commitment to ensuring that no child is denied access to essential medical care due to financial constraints.

Shrey Tandan at Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival 2026

Speaking about the successful conclusion of the festival, Jyoti Sagar, Founder Trustee of Genesis Foundation, said, "KRBF has always been more than just a music festival- it is a movement that brings people together for a shared purpose. As we mark the 10th edition, we are grateful for the continued support of our artists, partners and audiences who make this impact possible year after year."

Cinematic Brilliance that defines DHURANDHAR - The Revenge

Sameer Mutreja, Founding Director, Scapes India, 1842 Kasauli, added, "It is inspiring to see how KRBF continues to bring together music, community and purpose in such a meaningful way. We are proud to be associated with a festival that celebrates art while contributing to a larger social impact and respecting the natural and cultural fabric of Kasauli."

With another successful edition, the Kasauli Rhythm & Blues Festival continues to strengthen its legacy as a platform that brings together music, community and purpose creating impact, one note at a time.

- By Paresh B. Mehta

Darshana Khandelwal Joins ‘Divya Prem’ as April; Says Role Allows Her to "Explore Both Extremes"

Much like the vibrant shift in nature during a change of seasons, Sun Neo’s Divya Prem: Pyaar Aur Rahasya Ki Kahani is set to introduce a character that embodies the essence of spring. Actress Darshana Khandelwal enters the fray as ‘April,’ bringing a magical, lively energy that promises to add fresh layers of intrigue and fantasy to the evolving storyline.

Talking about her character, Darshana said. "April is a very unique character because she isn’t purely positive or negative, she exists in a grey space. What makes her special is that her anger comes from a place of being misunderstood. She’s been reduced to a joke for years, and that emotional hurt drives her actions. But at the same time, she’s also a symbol of beauty, renewal, and life. That contrast is what makes her so layered and real."

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

She further added, "I’m genuinely very excited to play April because it gave me the opportunity to explore both extremes, controlled intensity in her revenge phase and softness in her true form. As an actor, it’s always exciting when a role allows you to shift emotionally and visually."

Sharing her excitement about her look she shared, "I think it’s one of the strongest elements of the character. The floral mascot look is very striking and slightly intense, it immediately reflects her inner conflict and power. On the other hand, her look in her own realm is soft, vibrant, and full of life, which beautifully represents her true essence. As a performer, both looks helped me get into the character instantly. Overall, April is not just a character, she’s a feeling and that’s what makes playing her so special for me"

Watch Divya Prem: Pyaar aur Rahasya ki Kahani every Monday to Sunday at 7:30 PM, only on Sun Neo.

Dhurandhar The Revenge actor Vinod Tharani speaks about the experience

Actor Vinod Tharani is all praise for his latest release, Dhurandhar The Revenge, calling it a rare cinematic experience that stands apart from conventional storytelling. Having played the role of Azam Cheema in the film, Vinod believes the project has struck a chord with audiences because of its bold vision and emotional depth.

“Dhurandhar has become a rage because it breaks away from conventional storytelling and delivers a gripping, unconventional narrative,” he says. “Director Aditya Dhar has made this film with immense conviction. It stands out for its bold treatment and immersive storytelling.”

He adds that what truly elevates the film is the meticulous effort across every department. “Powerful performances, apt casting, striking looks, detailed costumes, and a dynamic music score—everything enhances the narrative. The scale feels grand yet controlled, and it never overshadows the emotional core of the story.”

Despite having a relatively small role, Vinod expresses immense gratitude for being part of what he calls a “mega blockbuster.” “I played Azam Cheema, the man behind the 26/11 attacks, who works with Major Iqbal, played by Arjun Rampal, in the climax. Even though my role was brief, I feel blessed to be part of such a powerful film. I’m truly happy for the entire cast and crew.”

Cinematic Brilliance that defines ‘Dhurandhar – The Revenge’

Talking about the kind of roles he seeks, Vinod shares, “I’m always hungry for layered characters where I can showcase my range. While I often get cast as an antagonist, I have much more to offer. Coming from a theatre background, I can portray every emotion with honesty and conviction.”

Apart from acting, Vinod is also a writer, and his perspective adds another dimension to his appreciation of the film. “As a writer, what struck me most about Dhurandhar is its courage to break structure and remain deeply engaging. It challenges the audience while keeping them emotionally invested. That kind of storytelling conviction is rare. ”

Vinod has also been part of notable projects like Tejas alongside Kangana Ranaut, Good Luck Jerry with Aanand L. Rai, Breathe Season 3 featuring Abhishek Bachchan, and Whistle Blowers on SonyLIV, further showcasing his diverse body of work.