New Delhi, Dec. 18 -- There is something magical about watching the sun paint the waters of the Ganga in shades of ochre in the early hours of the morning while listening to strains of music at Varanasi's Guleria Kothi. Throughout the day, musicians, artists, philosophers and authors come together to present reflections on Kabiriyat, or Kabir's legacy of inclusivity and self-inquiry. This year too, the ninth edition of the Mahindra Kabira Festival expands its scope of exploration of the 15th-century mystic's teachings.

To be held along the ghats of Varanasi between 19-21 December, the festival is all set to open with reflections by Umesh Kabir, educator and theologist at the Kabirchauramath Ashram, followed by a qawwali by Rehmat-e-Nusra...