Lucknow– The City of Nawabs is poised to don its cultural crown once again as the Repertwahr Festival prepares for its 13th season, set to unfold from 18th to 21st December 2025 at the sprawling Janeshwar Mishra Park.
A beacon of theatre, music, comedy, literature, art, and culinary delights, the festival is ready to weave its magic, transforming Lucknow into India’s cultural capital for four unforgettable days. With a legacy of bridging heritage and modernity, Season 13 promises to elevate the festival’s storied reputation with a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and cultural dialogue.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
Founded in 2009, Repertwahr started as a modest stage for local theatre groups. Today, it is North India’s premier performing arts festival, drawing more than 30,000 visitors annually.
Rooted in Lucknow’s famed traditions of tehzeeb (etiquette), poetry, and classical arts, the festival has carved a unique niche by fusing edgy theatre, soul-stirring music, side-splitting comedy, and thought-provoking literary discussions. Its evolution mirrors the city’s own cultural renaissance—where history meets experimentation, and where every performance adds to Lucknow’s evolving identity.
Festival founder and director Bhoopesh Rai summed it up best:
“Repertwahr is not just a festival—it’s a movement that celebrates art, talent, and community. Season 13 will showcase world-class performances while keeping alive the sense of togetherness that defines Lucknow. This December, the city won’t just be a host—it will be the cultural capital of India.”
A Legacy of Unforgettable Moments
In its 12 seasons, Repertwahr has left behind a tapestry of iconic performances that audiences still cherish.
- Theatre Excellence: Rajit Kapur’s Rage Theatre, the festival has staged classics and experimental works alike, cementing theatre as its backbone.
- Musical Brilliance: Nights have resonated with the sounds of Indian Ocean, Raghu Dixit, and Prateek Kuhad, blending folk, fusion, and indie vibes under Lucknow’s starry skies.
- Comedy Powerhouses: Performers like Zakir Khan and Biswa Kalyan Rath have turned open-air venues into laughter arenas.
- Literary Luminaries: From Javed Akhtar’s evocative recitations to storytelling sessions, the literary wing has sparked dialogue and reflection.
This legacy makes Repertwahr more than an annual event—it is a stage where icons meet emerging voices.
Season 13: A Grand Canvas of Art and Culture
The upcoming edition is expected to raise the bar even higher with an eclectic mix of genres and experiences:
🎭 Theatre Extravaganza – Renowned troupes and new voices will showcase everything from hard-hitting dramas to light-hearted comedies.
🎶 Musical Diversity – From classical maestros to indie and contemporary performers, the lineup will be a sonic journey across genres.
😂 Comedy Nights – Popular stand-up stars will take the stage with their sharp wit and relatability.
📚 Literary Dialogues – Authors, poets, and cultural thinkers will engage audiences in conversations that challenge and inspire.
🖌️ Workshops & Masterclasses – Interactive sessions will provide aspiring artists a chance to learn from established masters.
🛍️ Artisanal Bazaars & Culinary Delights – Local crafts, handmade treasures, and a gourmet food trail that celebrates both Awadhi cuisine and global flavors will round out the experience.

With Janeshwar Mishra Park’s expansive 376-acre green setting, the festival will come alive through open-air stages, buzzing food courts, and intimate corners for cultural exchange.
A Cultural and Economic Catalyst
Repertwahr has become a driver of Lucknow’s cultural economy. It creates platforms for artisans, food vendors, and small businesses, while significantly boosting tourism and hospitality. Hotels, homestays, and local markets see a festive surge, while artisans and chefs showcase Lucknow’s heritage before a diverse audience.
The festival not only entertains but also empowers local talent and entrepreneurship, reinforcing its role as a community builder.
A Cultural Pilgrimage for All
Whether it’s families soaking in open-air theatre, students attending late-night gigs, or professionals diving into literary dialogues, Repertwahr resonates with audiences of all ages and walks of life.
Its inclusive spirit ensures that everyone—from the seasoned art connoisseur to the first-time festival-goer—feels at home. For many, attending Repertwahr has become an annual ritual, a pilgrimage to reconnect with creativity and community.
Event Details
📅 Dates: 18th – 21st December 2025
📍 Venue: Janeshwar Mishra Park, Lucknow
🎟️ Tickets: To be announced (single-day passes and festival passes with concessions expected)
🚍 Accessibility: Well-connected by public transport, with ample parking facilities
Anticipation Builds
As the countdown begins, the city is already abuzz with excitement. Repertwahr Season 13 is set to carry forward a 16-year legacy of cultural brilliance, reaffirming Lucknow’s place as the beating heart of India’s artistic landscape.
In the words of Bhoopesh Rai:
“Lucknow doesn’t just host Repertwahr—it lives it.”
This December, the city promises to transform into a canvas of creativity, laughter, music, and dialogue, leaving memories that will linger long after the final curtain falls.
