Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 returns to Pretoria in March with genre-blending music, fashion, art and a nationwide talent hunt celebrating SA creativity
Mahindra South Africa has confirmed the return of Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026, with the lifestyle festival set to take place in March at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria, promising an expanded celebration of music, fashion and visual art.
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The announcement follows the success of the festival’s debut edition, which organisers described as a landmark moment in blending performance, design and creative expression into a single immersive experience.
The 2026 edition is expected to feature larger-scale collaborations, new artistic concepts and a stronger focus on emerging talent.
Rajesh Gupta, Chief Executive Officer of Mahindra South Africa, said the festival reflects the country’s cultural diversity and the brand’s long-term vision in the local market.
“Fusion Fest is more than a festival. It reflects the youthful vibrancy and diversity of the Rainbow Nation, bringing together music, fashion and art in a celebration of shared expression,” Gupta said, adding that the event aligns with Mahindra’s Rise philosophy and its growing footprint in South Africa.
This year’s programme is built around four themed fusion performances, each combining live music with fashion design and visual art.
The concepts are designed to explore South Africa’s cultural evolution, from its democratic beginnings to its contemporary youth-driven creative economy.
The opening segment, Rewind the Revolution, will see singer Zöe Modiga lead a nostalgic musical journey alongside Mafikizolo, Kurt Darren and Claire Johnston, paired with fashion by Imprint and pop art visuals by Shaun Oakley Vandal.
Hip Hop Most High will blend hip hop and gospel, featuring BLXKIE and Maglera Doe Boy with the Tshwane Gospel Choir, supported by fashion from The Bam Collective and visual art by Ndumiso Nyoni.
The third segment, Femme for All, will spotlight female artists across generations, including Naledi Aphiwe, Karen Zoid, Nomfundo Moh and Mariechan, with visual art contributions from international artist Inka Kendzia.
The final performance, All About Now, centres on contemporary amapiano, led by Zee Nxumalo, Focalistic and Daliwonga, alongside fashion by Munkus and street art by Cape Town-based illustrator Bushy Wopp.
A key element of Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is a nationwide call for entries across music, fashion and art.
Winners in each category will receive R30,000 in prize money and an opportunity to perform or exhibit on the main stage, positioning the festival as a platform for emerging creatives.
Entries for the talent competition close on January 31, 2026.
Mahindra is also linking the festival to its consumer engagement drive through the XUV 3XO Test Drive Challenge, offering participants the chance to win VIP festival access, branded merchandise and vehicle-related experiences.
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Organisers say the expanded festival underscores Mahindra’s intention to embed itself deeper into South Africa’s cultural landscape, using creativity as a powerful connector between communities, industries and generations.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
