Pioneering music festival Independence Rock returned in 2022 after a hiatus of nine years, with founder Farhad Wadia teaming up with Hyperlink Brand Solutions as co-organiser and the Mahindra Group as title partner. I-Rock, launched in 1986, was both the country’s longest-running and most popular rock festival. Attending the event was a rite of passage for the country’s rock and metal fans who thronged its venues, alfresco auditorium Rang Bhavan and subsequently the Chitrakoot Grounds, for the annual headbanging ritual.
Playing a slot or winning the annual competition was a badge of honour for established and upcoming acts. Past editions of the festival have included acts by beloved bands such as classic rock group Parikrama, alternative rock purveyors Pentagram and Zero and metal outfits Bhayanak Maut, Brahma and Demonic Resurrection.
The line-up in 2022 comprised Indus Creed, Parikrama, Pentagram and Zero as well as debutants, post-rock act aswekeepsearching, alternative rock bands Avial, Parvaaz and The F16s, metal group Bloodywood and fusion-rock ensemble Thaikkudam Bridge.
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How to Reach Mumbai
1. By Air: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, formerly known as Sahar International Airport, is the primary international airport serving the Mumbai metropolitan area. It is situated about 30 km from the main Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) train station. Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji has two terminals. Terminal 1, or the domestic terminal, was the old airport referred to as Santa Cruz Airport, and some locals still use this name. Terminal 2, or the international terminal, replaced the old terminal 2, formerly known as Sahar Airport. The Santa Cruz Domestic Airport is about 4.5 km from the international airport. There are regular direct flights to Mumbai from most major cities in India and across the world. Buses and cabs are easily available from the airport to reach desired destinations.
2. By Rail: Mumbai is very well connected to rest of India by train. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is the most popular station in Mumbai. Trains to Mumbai are available from all major railway stations in India. Some important Mumbai trains of note are the Mumbai Rajdhani, Mumbai Duronto and Konkan Kanya Express.
3. By Road: Mumbai is well-connected with national highways and expressways. Visiting by bus is economical for individual tourists. Government-run and private buses operate daily services. Travelling to Mumbai by car is a common choice made by travellers, and hailing a cab or hiring a private car is an efficient way of exploring the city.
Source: Mumbaicity.gov.in



1. Sandals, flip flops, sneakers (a perfect option if it’s not likely to rain) or boots (but make sure they are worn in). You need to keep those feet tappin’. On that note, carry a bandana or a scrunchie to avoid tressy accidents with your fellow festival-goers.
2. A sturdy water bottle, if the festival has refillable water stations.
3. COVID packs: Hand sanitiser, extra masks and a copy of your vaccination certificate are things you should keep handy.


