Five Years Later, SulaFest 2025 Proves It Was Worth the Wait

As the sun set over the vineyards of Nashik, SulaFest 2025 opened its gates once again after a five-year break. The atmosphere was relaxed yet lively, with groups of festivalgoers making their way through the scenic venue. The mix of music, wine, and open spaces created an easygoing mood, perfect for a weekend getaway.

The two days of the festival saw Easy Wanderlings, whose music set a comfortable tone for the evening crowd. Dualist Inquiry introduced his signature electronic beats and Ritviz and Karan Kanchan’s B2B set brought a heavier, bass-driven sound, getting the crowd more involved. Divine took the stage with a confident, high-energy set that had his fans rapping along. The contrast of a hip-hop act in the middle of a vineyard setting made for an interesting experience.

Throughout the two days, attendees explored the vineyard tours and wine tastings, while others took part in grape stomping, a lighthearted activity that drew plenty of laughter. The flea market had a mix of handmade jewelry, fashion, and collectibles, giving people a chance to take home something unique from the festival. A tattoo studio set up at the venue attracted those looking for a more lasting souvenir, while a clothing pop-up offered trendy festival-ready outfits. For those interested in hands-on experiences, a custom candle-making and gifting station provided a creative outlet, letting visitors craft their own scented candles. Nearby, a tarot card-reading pop-up drew curious festivalgoers eager for a glimpse into the future. Food stalls served a variety of cuisines, with artisanal chocolate tasting sessions offering a sweet indulgence. Each dish paired perfectly with the selection of wines available across the venue, enhancing the overall experience.

A standout addition this year was the Ugaoo stall, catered by India’s largest online plant nursery and gardening store. Their interactive stall served refreshing flavored water, offering festivalgoers a much-needed hydration boost between sets. It was a thoughtful touch—balancing indulgence with wellness and giving attendees a moment to recharge before diving back into the festivities. For those feeling the effects of long hours on their feet, a foot massage station on the other side of the grounds provided some much-needed relief, allowing people to relax during the fun.

As the days progressed, the live performances resumed with artists such as Ankur Tewari and the Ghalat Family, Oaff & Savera, and When Chai Met Toast. Their sets leaned toward a softer, more melodic sound, making for an enjoyable evening that didn’t feel too rushed or overwhelming. People sat on the grass, wandered between stages, and took in the performances at their own pace.

By the time the festival wrapped up, there was a sense of quiet satisfaction among the attendees. SulaFest isn’t a high-intensity music festival—it’s an event that allows people to take things slow, enjoy good music, and experience a vineyard setting in a different way. After its long hiatus, this edition felt like a welcome return, striking a balance between live performances, unique experiences, and the relaxed charm of Nashik’s wine country.