Photograph by Shrey Gupta
The wind greeted us, cool and dry, carrying faint traces of music as we reached Alsisar Mahal for Magnetic Fields Festival 2024. Surrounded by the vast desert, the palace stood proudly, holding centuries of stories and ready to host new ones. Stepping through its gates felt like entering a surreal destination where history and modernity came together to create something extraordinary.
During the day, the palace came alive with activity and excitement. A bustling flea market showcased unique finds from indie brands—handmade jewelry, quirky outfits, and other charming treasures. Nearby, workshops kept people busy with creative activities like block printing and perfume-making. Everywhere you turned, there was laughter, curiosity, and a sense of excitement building for the evening ahead.
As the sun started to set, Magnetic Fields revealed its true charm. The Corona Sundowner stage on the palace rooftop became the perfect spot to enjoy the daily sunset. With stunning desert views all around, it felt like time stood still. Artists like Sublime Sound and Syeyl set the mood with soothing, entrancing beats that matched beautifully with the warm glow of the sunset.
When night fell, the festival turned into a lively maze of music and energy. The Ray-Ban x Magnetic Fields showcase on Friday night, Jameson Connects South Stage, BUDx North Stage and BUDx Yard became the heart of the action. Dancing beneath a starry sky to artists like Nicola Cruz, David August, and Stalvart John was a surreal yet grounding experience. The music pulsed through the desert dunes, bringing everyone together in a way that only music can.
For those craving something funkier, the Cosmic Disco Oasis was a dream come true. Neon lights lit up the dance floor as groovy, feel-good beats took over. Artists like Kibo kept the crowd moving well into the early hours. Meanwhile, the Peacock Club, tucked away in the desert, offered a completely different atmosphere. With a limited capacity, it hosted a mix of experimental electronic sounds and global music, perfect for those wanting to discover something fresh and unique.
The Easy Picnic area where selectors played vinyls, was the perfect place to relax and take it easy. During the day, it became a cozy hangout spot where people lounged on cots, sipped drinks, and listened to DJs play classic vinyl records. The gentle crackle of the vinyl added a nostalgic touch, making this stage a peaceful favorite for many.
Magnetic Fields wasn’t just about electronic music, though. The festival honored India’s deep musical traditions in ways that felt just as special. The Puqaar Mehfil sessions brought audiences close to classical and folk performances, while soulful qawwali music filled the palace halls, offering moments of reflection and awe. These performances reminded us that music isn’t just entertainment—it’s connection, history, and soul.
One of the festival’s most unforgettable moments was the ‘Fieldlines’ project, a collaboration between dubstep producer V.I.V.E.K and Manganiyar musicians including Rajasthani folk legend Bhanwari Devi. Their fusion of modern and traditional sounds created something unique, drawing cheers and goosebumps from everyone lucky enough to witness it. Moments like this showed why Magnetic Fields is so much more than just a music festival.
Every corner of Alsisar Mahal had something new to discover. From the lively flea market to the diverse stages, there was always a choice—dance until your feet ached, join a workshop, or simply relax under the stars and let the music surround you. No matter where you went, the vibes were always spot-on, and the energy was impossible to resist.
Now in its tenth year, Magnetic Fields has mastered the art of creating something special. It’s a place where cultures collaborate, where music flows beyond genres, and where the desert feels alive with possibilities.