How The ASEAN-India Music Festival In Thailand Brought Together A Cross-Cultural Harmony of Sounds

“Music has the power to bridge hearts and create friendships that transcend borders,” says Sanjeev Bhargava, the visionary founder of the ASEAN-India Music Festival. 

While it may sound quite sappy to some, his words capture the essence of the recently concluded festival’s mission — one that aims to unite diverse cultures through the universal language of music. The ASEAN-India Music Festival’s journey began in New Delhi, where the first leg of this year’s festival (held last November 29 to December 1) drew over 20,000 attendees across three days. Featuring 15 bands from India and ASEAN member states, the event celebrated the rich cultural and civilizational bonds between the regions.

However, this year’s Bangkok edition marks the first of its kind to go beyond the borders of India. Though a single-night event, this continuation of the festival managed to capture the essence of what makes this event so special by transforming the venue of The Street Ratchada into a melting pot of cultures, with attendees treated to not just music but also a celebration of shared humanity. 

Under Bhargava’s guidance, the festival has blossomed into a beacon of cross-cultural collaboration especially as it marked a groundbreaking moment as the festival ventured outside India for the first time.

Organized by Sehar in collaboration with India’s Ministry of External Affairs, the ASEAN-India Music Festival aligns with India’s Act East Policy, a framework aimed at fostering socio-cultural ties with the Asia-Pacific region. This year’s festival celebrated the tenth anniversary of the policy by using music as a medium to connect people.

Bhargava envisions the festival as more than a series of performances. “Music actually unites people. Whether you are coming from any part of this region, it’s about the great guitar, the great drums, and the shared love for music,” he shares. “We’re trying to see into people’s hearts and tell the world we are one.”

On the night of the Bangkok edition’s festival itself, The Street Ratchada buzzed with energy as attendees, ranging from high school students to professionals, gathered for the free, all-ages event. Opening the evening was India’s alternative rock band, The Western Ghats, whose blend of electronic music and colorful synth-driven sounds captivated the audience. Their set included original tracks like “Thousand Miles” and “Humne Bhi,” interspersed with playful renditions of popular hits such as “Paradise” by Coldplay and “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. The band’s relatable lyrics and engaging performance style set a vibrant tone for the night.

“Western Ghats is an outstanding band,” Bhargava shares. “I believe these people will cross over and start collaborating in the ASEAN region with other nations. That exposure is very important. Once you get international exposure, you get bigger and more confident.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the ASEAN Collaboration Band, a supergroup of artists from Laos, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Representing diverse musical traditions, they came together to create a vibrant tapestry of sounds. “We formed these bands with a mix of musicians from different countries,” Bhargava explains. “It’s about bringing a guitarist from one place, vocals from another, and indigenous instruments together. It’s the spirit of ASEAN and India.”

Among the performers was Angela from the Philippines’ rising P-Pop group KAIA, who brought youthful energy and charisma to the stage with her rousing renditions of KAIA’s newly released single “Walang Biruan” and the fan-favorite track “Dalawa.” Aside from her, representing Cambodia was Chet Kanhchna, while Taiy Akard showcased the musical heritage of Laos, alongside several others who delivered a fantastic display of their musical heritage via their group performances. True to the vision of Bhargava, the collaboration of all these ASEAN acts via the music itself was a testament to the festival’s core philosophy of unity through diversity.

With how seamlessly everything worked out for these ASEAN performers, one would have recognized the months of preparation that went into curating the collaboration band’s performance, with Zoom calls and brainstorming sessions helping the musicians align their styles. “It was a process of serendipity,” Bhargava recalls. “Nothing falls into place on the first try, but we were thrilled with the final result.”

Following the ASEAN collaboration band’s performance, closing the night was Television Off, Thailand’s indie darling from the Smallroom label. Their electrifying set featured tracks from their debut album, “Creatures,” blending indie rock with pop elements. The crowd sang along to every word, creating an atmosphere of shared euphoria. Standout performances included “เปลี่ยนไปเหมือนกัน (Vesper)” and “Mantis,” which highlighted the band’s intricate sound design and emotional depth that resonated with the entire crowd in attendance of the festival.

“[This] Bangkok edition is an experimental beginning,” Bhargava reflects. “We hope to grow it into something bigger, perhaps hosting future editions in cities like Jakarta or Manila. This is just the start.”

Beyond the captivating performances, the festival underscored the potential of music as a vehicle for diplomacy. Each artist brought a unique flavor to the event, showcasing the depth and diversity of the ASEAN and Indian music scenes. Bhargava notes, “In a world with so much division and restlessness, events like this remind us of the power of love, harmony, and togetherness. Music can bridge hearts and create friendships that transcend borders.”

Looking ahead, the ASEAN-India Music Festival aims to deepen its impact. The event not only provides a platform for artists to shine but also paves the way for collaborations that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. Bhargava also notes that there are already plans underway to host the festival in more ASEAN capitals — with possibilities to include Jakarta and Manila, further cementing its role as a cultural ambassador.

Moreover, Bhargava recognizes the importance of fostering young talent. By involving emerging artists and providing them with international exposure, the event serves as a launchpad for future stars. “It’s exciting to see musicians grow,” Bhargava shares. “The exposure they gain here boosts their confidence and helps elevate the music scene in their home countries.”

As the lights dimmed and the final notes echoed through the venue, the Bangkok edition of the ASEAN-India Music Festival stood as a powerful testament to Bhargava’s vision. Attendees left with hearts full of music and minds enriched by the cross-cultural experience. For many, the festival was a reminder of the unifying power of art in a fragmented world.

“Spread love; don’t spread hatred,” Bhargava concludes. “[We hope that you] join the spirit of ASEAN. Let’s hear the music and see the bands on stage from all around our region. Because together, we can create a region united in harmony.”

The ASEAN-India Music Festival has not only strengthened the bonds between India and the ASEAN region but also set a precedent for how cultural exchange can inspire unity. With each strum of a guitar and every beat of a drum, the festival continues to weave a narrative of shared heritage and mutual respect, proving that music truly knows no borders.

Check out more images from the Bangkok edition of the ASEAN-India Music Festival 2024 below: