Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 Returns
THE RACE TO THE SECOND EDITION OF THE MAHINDRA FUSION FEST IS ON
| WHERE MUSIC MEETS ART AND FASHION |
The countdown has officially begun. Following a groundbreaking debut, the Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is set to return to the iconic SunBet Arena in Pretoria this March, promising an even bigger, louder and more immersive celebration of South African creativity. Where music meets art and fashion, Fusion Fest once again positions itself as a cultural movement rather than just a festival.
Driven by overwhelming demand after its first edition, Mahindra South Africa is raising the bar with a bold vision that brings together boundary-breaking performances, unexpected collaborations and a powerful platform for emerging creators. Fusion Fest 2026 is designed to reflect the evolving pulse of the country’s creative landscape — vibrant, diverse and unapologetically expressive.
“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. It brings Mahindra’s Rise philosophy to life by showcasing how creativity and collaboration can unite different voices into something more powerful. As Mahindra moves deeper into its third decade in South Africa, Fusion Fest 2026 builds on that foundation — growing in ambition and collaboration, driven by the belief that we rise strongest when we rise together.”
Speaking on the upcoming lifestyle extravaganza, Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, shared:
FOUR FUSIONS. ONE UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE.
This year’s edition will feature four genre-defying fusion performances, each reflecting South Africa’s past, present and future. Every performance is paired with immersive fashion and cutting-edge visual art, creating a multi-sensory lifestyle experience unlike anything seen before.
FUSION 1: REWIND THE REVOLUTION
The Music: Zöe Modiga leads a nostalgic journey from 1994 to now, joined by Mafikizolo, Kurt Darren and Claire Johnston in a tribute to the sounds that shaped a nation.
The Fashion: Imprint by Mzukisi Mbane
The Art: Durban-born multidisciplinary artist Shaun ‘Damn Vandal’ Oakley Vandal, known for his bold pop-art style blending graffiti, digital illustration and contemporary culture.
FUSION 2: HIP HOP MOST HIGH
The Music: BLXCKIE and Maglera Doe Boy join forces with the Tshwane Gospel Choir in a powerful fusion of hip hop and spiritual praise.
The Fashion: The Bam Collective by Jacques Bam
The Art: Award-winning illustrator and motion designer Ndumiso Nyoni, celebrated for merging African heritage with modern youth culture.
FUSION 3: FEMME FOR ALL
The Music: A girl-powered showcase featuring Naledi Aphiwe, Karen Zoid, Nomfundo Moh and Mariechan, honouring women across generations and genres.
The Art: Internationally acclaimed director and visual artist Inka Kendzia, whose work explores the body, memory and humanity’s connection to nature.
FUSION 4: ALL ABOUT NOW
The Music: Zee Nxumalo, Focalistic and Daliwonga headline a contemporary amapiano-driven performance rooted in the present and looking to the future.
The Fashion: Munkus by Thando Ntuli
The Art: Cape Town-based muralist and illustrator Bushy Wopp, whose bold, colourful street art challenges perceptions and unites communities.
CALL TO ENTRIES: MUSIC, FASHION AND ART
At the heart of Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is a nationwide talent search, inviting creatives to enter across three categories inspired by the festival’s core pillars:
Music | Fashion | Art
Top creators in each category will walk away with R30 000 in cash and secure a spotlight moment on the main Fusion Fest stage — placing them at the centre of one of South Africa’s most exciting cultural events. Entries close on Saturday, 31 January 2026.
MORE THAN A FESTIVAL
Adding to the excitement, the Mahindra XUV 3XO Test Drive Challenge gives participants the chance to test drive the all-new compact SUV and stand to win VIP Fusion Fest tickets, exclusive merchandise, and even a Mahindra XUV 3XO weekend getaway.
To build nationwide anticipation, Mahindra has already ignited the journey with high-energy roadshows at UCT, Durban’s Beach Marine Parade, and the Joburg Super Kings Carnival – Summer Games Edition. The Joburg Super Kings Carnival – Summer Games Edition offered fans entertainment zones, live DJs and performances, interactive games, competitions, meet-and-greets and prizes — giving South Africans a taste of what to expect before the main event.
With creativity at its core and collaboration as its driving force, Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 is set to redefine what a lifestyle festival can be — a bold meeting point where South Africa’s music, art and fashion rise together.
