Supported by Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan
A collaborative effort of Simurgh communities, Zubaan and Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan
Date of festival: 31st October and 1st November 2026
Background about the Simurgh Centre (Zubaan’s field and outreach office)
Historically, the Simurgh Centre has engaged with the displaced communities in Delhi as a
platform for cultural celebration, community bonding and memory making. Our work began
through spirited collaborations between the Afghan community living in exile in Delhi and
global artists. Responding to the changing political situation in Afghanistan and the increasing
presence of displaced Afghan artists, writers and families in India- the project began as a digital
initiative during the pandemic, and now has expanded its reach to other dispossessed and
marginalized communities in the city. Outreach and programming efforts by the Simurgh Centre
are supported by our partners at the Goethe Institut/Max Muller Bhawan, New Delhi.
About JASHN-E-NOOR (An overview)
Jashn-E-Noor, is an annual celebration of Afghan culture, community, art and cuisine; taking place
at Goethe-Institut/Max Mueller Bhavan on 31 October and 1 November 2026. Open to the public
through registration, the festival unfolds across multiple spaces of the venue over two days.
This year’s edition, curated by the Simurgh Community Centre, explores the idea of home through
stories of belonging, identity, and journeys of resilience. Rooted in community values, Jashn-E-Noor
offers a space to rest, rejoice, and reconnect; honouring the strength, creativity, and spirit of
Simurgh communities. The festival reflects the Centre’s ongoing community-building and outreach
efforts bringing together Afghan food, handicrafts, music, dance, and visual arts in a vibrant
showcase of cultural expression.
On the evening of 31 October, the front lawns will come alive with a mesmerising Sufi poetry and
dance performance. The following evening, artists from diverse communities will gather in a
musical ensemble that celebrates harmony, connection, and shared belonging through music.
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Who can join the event ?
The event is open to all, though registrations are mandatory. Registration link is attached here
Is the event registration ticketed ?
No, Entry to the festival is free for all, while registration is subject to approval by the organising
committee.
Note: Since we have a limited number of seats available in various workshops during the
event, we encourage interested individuals at their earliest convenience and only if they are
sure that they will be able to join in.
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