Anant University Hosts WITH Festival 2025, Celebrating Global Indigenous Storytelling
Anant National University recently took center stage in a global celebration of Indigenous storytelling by hosting the 3rd edition of the WITH Festival, themed “Borderless – Global Indigenous Futures.” Held on February 21-22, 2025, at its Sanskardham Campus in Ahmedabad, the festival unfolded simultaneously across four cities worldwide—Quito (Ecuador), Miami (USA), São Paulo (Brazil), and Ahmedabad—connecting diverse cultures through contemporary media. As the exclusive host of the Indian edition, Anant curated a dynamic two-day event featuring a rich tapestry of performances, including music, theater, poetry recitals, and storytelling sessions, all dedicated to promoting and preserving Indigenous knowledge systems.
Among the standout performers was the Tukul Arts and Media Collective, a group of artists hailing from Jammu & Kashmir. Their soulful folk songs transported the audience to the lush valleys of Kashmir, weaving narratives steeped in tradition and cultural heritage. The ensemble, comprising Manzoor Ul Haq, Feroze Ahmad Shah, Shabir Ahmad Bhat, Sheeraz Ahmad Shah, and Mohammad Ramzan, captivated attendees with a performance that underscored the power of Indigenous storytelling. Their contribution highlighted the festival’s mission to amplify voices rooted in local traditions while resonating on a global stage.
The festival’s diverse line-up also featured other remarkable acts. Shillong-based folk fusion band Summersalt blended traditional melodies with modern rhythms, delivering an electrifying performance. A skateboarder-rapper from Madhya Pradesh shared her groundbreaking journey, merging urban artistry with personal narrative. Artists from Majuli, Assam, showcased their unique folk traditions, adding to the vibrant mosaic of Indigenous expressions. These performances, among others, reflected the festival’s theme of borderless creativity, bridging geographical and cultural divides.
Dr. Anunaya Chaubey, Provost of Anant National University, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “WITH is organized in only four cities globally, and Anant is the proud host of the Indian edition. The festival aligns with our core philosophy of celebrating inclusivity, diversity, and Indigenous knowledge—elements that hold the key to developing a sustainable future.” His remarks underscored the university’s commitment to fostering dialogue between tradition and innovation, a principle central to its DesignX philosophy.
The WITH Festival 2025 offered more than just performances; it provided an immersive platform for students and attendees to engage with artists and experts through workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions. This hands-on approach reinforced Anant’s mission to empower the next generation of problem-solvers by blending Indigenous wisdom with contemporary design and technology. The event drew a global audience, with virtual access provided via live streams on February 21 and 22, ensuring that the celebration of Indigenous futures reached far beyond the physical venues.
Anant National University’s role as the sole Indian host of this prestigious festival highlights its growing stature as a leader in sustainable education and cultural preservation. By curating such a diverse and impactful line-up, the university not only honored Indigenous knowledge systems but also showcased their relevance in addressing modern challenges. The success of the festival reaffirms Anant’s dedication to creating a world where heritage and progress coexist harmoniously, inspiring sustainable solutions for the future.
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