In its recent incarnation the festival has expanded to other cities in South Asia.
The festival was founded in Nepal by Samik Kharel, which later expanded to many Indian cities bringing hundreds of local and international musicians.
The first edition of the Himalayan Blues Festival was held between 5–9 September.
The theme of the first edition of the festival was called the voice of unity.
[1] The event was documented by filmmaker Costa Botes.