Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 returns to Pretoria

Following its inaugural edition, the festival is set to once again position itself as a platform for collaboration across creative disciplines. Mahindra South Africa confirmed that the 2026 edition will feature four themed fusion performances, each designed to reflect different moments in South Africa’s cultural landscape.

Rajesh Gupta, chief executive officer of Mahindra South Africa, said the festival forms part of the company’s broader cultural engagement in the country.
“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. He added that the event aligns with Mahindra’s approach to collaboration and creative development in South Africa.

The first segment, Rewind the Revolution, will be led by Zöe Modiga, alongside Mafikizolo, Kurt Darren and Claire Johnston. The performance will trace South African popular music from the democratic era to the present. Fashion for the segment will be presented by Imprint, led by Mzukisi Mbane, while visual art contributions will come from Durban-born multidisciplinary artist Shaun ‘Damn Vandal’ Oakley, known for combining graffiti, pop art and digital illustration.

The second fusion, Hip Hop Most High, will bring together hip hop artists Blxckie and Maglera Doe Boy with the Tshwane Gospel Choir. Fashion for the segment will be curated by The Bam Collective, founded by Jacques Bam, while artwork will be supplied by illustrator and motion designer Ndumiso Nyoni, whose work blends African visual traditions with contemporary youth culture.

The third performance, Femme for All, will focus on women performers across genres and generations, featuring Naledi Aphiwe, Karen Zoid, Nomfundo Moh and Mariechan. Visual art for this segment will be created by international director and visual artist Inka Kendzia, whose work explores themes of memory, the body and nature.

The final segment, All About Now, will centre on contemporary amapiano, with performances by Zee Nxumalo, Focalistic and Daliwonga. Fashion will be provided by Munkus, led by Thando Ntuli, while Cape Town-based mural artist and illustrator Bushy Wopp will contribute large-scale visual works known for their bold colour and social commentary.

Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is expected to take place later this March, with further details on ticketing and the full programme to be released ahead of the event.