Anita Dongre Rewild 2026 EP

Indian high fashion and independent music have produced some of the most atmospheric soundscapes in the industry. Back when Anita Dongre released her first Rewild collaboration in 2023, it set a specific bar: a fusion of heritage and electronica that felt as lush as her Banarasi weaves. So with the release of the new Anita Dongre Rewild 2026 EP, my expectations were high. I was hoping to hear the veterans — Gaurav Raina (of Midival Punditz), Karsh Kale, and Komorebi — push the boundaries of "Fashion-Fusion" into something entirely new.

Unfortunately, I found myself walking away with the same feeling I get from a beautiful but familiar storefront: it looks great, but I’ve seen this display before.

First, however, let’s talk about the high points. The production value on this EP is undeniably top-tier. These aren’t just bedroom beats; they are polished, expansive, and clearly designed to echo through the grand halls of the Lukshmi Vilas Palace in Vadodara, where the collection was recently showcased.

The best track in the entire project is undoubtedly "Good Thing 2026." It’s the one time where the collaborative between Raina, Komorebi, Monica Dogra, and Karsh Kale truly gels. It feels intentional — the track truly captures the "modern royalty" vibe Dongre is known for. Similarly, "Free Bird" (Gajiyo), featuring the 11th-generation Meghwal singer Mooralala Marwada, offers a brief glimpse of what this album could have been. Marwada’s raw, earthy vocals cutting through the electronic sheen provide a necessary friction that is truly a joy to hear.

The lyrics and themes also deserve credit for being more than just "fluff." In a world where sustainability and conservation are no longer optional, the "Rewild" message (and the fundraising initiative for elephant conservation that supports it) resonates. The "pop" sensibility to the messaging that makes the heavy topic of ecology more accessible is no small feat.

Unfortunately, musically, that’s where the excitement ends.

The rest of the EP feels stagnant. These pioneered the Asian Underground and Indian Electronica scenes but, there is very little evolution here. Tracks like "Reworld" and "I’m with You (Chhalado)" come across as safe. They don't take any real risks. It feels as if the masters of the craft are playing it safe to match the commercial needs of a fashion brand rather than challenging the listener.

Even the inclusion of powerhouse voices like Raja Kumari and Monica Dogra feels underutilized, as if they were directed to keep things "background-friendly." It lacks the grit and the experimental "studio jam" energy that makes an album feel alive.

Add "Good Thing 2026" and "Free Bird" to your playlists on a streaming service. But, if you’re looking for a bold step forward for Indian Electronica, you won't find it here.