The festival will be headlined by multi-platinum hip hop artist Divine (Vivian Fernandes). Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Gully Fest is all set to make a grand comeback. Showcasing the original subcultures and stars of the domestic hip-hop industry, the festival has provided a platform for both established artists and rising stars. It is a movement that celebrates the resilience, talent and validity of India’s street culture and music. The event aims to unite hip-hop enthusiasts from across India, fostering a sense of community and shared passion.

Led by multi-platinum hip hop trailblazer Divine (Vivian Fernandes) and his music group Gully Gang, the festival became popular in the hip hop world when it launched in 2018.

“It was a dream to see how far we have come as a movement and to see so many people picking up mics and pens. “We want to bring global rap icons to India to highlight the best of Indian hip-hop and give a platform to emerging artists,” said Divine.

D-Cypher to perform at festival Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

With the tagline ‘Hip-Hop Mere Gali Mein’, the two-day festival will pay tribute to the evolution and rise of the genre, acknowledging its humble roots and remembering its undeniable influence as a thriving cultural movement. This year’s theme revolves around the idea of ​​university culture, and how it has shaped the style and outlook of artists and hip-hop enthusiasts across generations.

This edition will feature festival founder Divine along with international hip-hop artist Pusha T as a headliner. They will be joined by a host of talented Indian artists including Gully Gang All Stars, Prabh Deep, Lisa Mishra, Sambatha, Yashraj, Gravity, Bombay Bassment, Rebel, DJ Proof, DJ Kan-Eye, OG Shazz and Beattro x D-Cypher . ,

Glee Fest was the first big stage that Gravity performed on in 2018, when they dropped their debut project ‘Question Mark’.

“A youngster like me who didn’t have big numbers or a discography was given a chance purely based on the quality of the music. I’m so happy to be featured again, representing the city, and being listed on the flyer with Pusha T! There couldn’t be a better full circle moment than this,” he said.

While hip-hop has been a part of the streets of Mumbai for years, according to D Cypher, the release of the 2019 Bollywood film gully boy was a path-breaking moment in Indian hip-hop history. He added, “It established the Indian hip-hop scene on a commercial scale, ensuring that the entire scene benefited from it.”

International hip-hop artist Pusha T will headline the festival. Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Yash Raj said, “Guli Fest has always been an iconic platform that brings together hip-hop artists who represent their truth.”

In addition to the exhibits, attendees may also be eager to engage in immersive experiences. The festival site will feature a variety of installations and experience areas including a graffiti wall, skate ramp, interactive boom box and the annual photo booth. While this year the festival is starting in Mumbai, next year it will also move to other cities across the country, ensuring continued momentum of this movement, creating a platform for all.

Gully Fest will be held on 26-27 October at Nesco Centre, Mumbai.