Monte Chapel to Host Unique Musical Fusion of India's Folk Traditions
This Saturday, the historic Monte Chapel in Old Goa will transform into a vibrant meeting ground for India's deep-rooted folk traditions. In a groundbreaking performance titled 'Roots: The Sound of India', artistes from three distinct regions—Kutch, Rajasthan, and Assam—will come together on one stage under the guidance of renowned classical musician Asad Khan.
Curated Collaboration by Asad Khan
Asad Khan, a torch-bearer of the prestigious Mewati gharana of Indian classical music, has meticulously curated this collaboration. He has brought together folk musicians from diverse regions and traditions, creating a unique musical tapestry that celebrates India's cultural heritage.
"These are not just performers. They are carriers of living traditions who come from very rural backgrounds, yet many of them have travelled the world, playing at global festivals," Khan emphasized, highlighting the significance of the artistes involved.
Diverse Regional Representation
The performance features a rich array of musical traditions:
- From Kutch: Renowned folk musician Dana Bharmal will perform on the santaar, an ancient and rarely heard string instrument native to the region, offering a glimpse into Gujarat's musical heritage.
- From Rajasthan: Folk artistes skilled in traditional percussion and vocal forms will showcase their artistry, playing instruments such as the khartal and bhapang, representing the desert state's vibrant folk culture.
- From Assam: A folk musician from Assam will bring Assamese melodies and rhythms into the mix, adding the distinctive sounds of Northeast India to the ensemble.
Classical and Western Elements
In addition to the folk performances, the ensemble incorporates classical and Western elements to create a harmonious blend. Khan himself will contribute on the sitar and vocals, accompanied by tabla players. A keyboardist trained in Western harmony will also join, bridging traditional and contemporary musical styles.
Why Goa is the Ideal Venue
Khan believes Goa is the perfect setting for such an experimental performance. "Goa has a very big heart with its different cultures, yet people are united. The Goan audience is willing to listen, to accept something new, whether it's folk, classical or experimental," he explained. This openness makes Goa an ideal platform for showcasing India's diverse musical traditions.
The event promises to be a memorable celebration of India's rich cultural mosaic, bringing together sounds from across the country in a historic setting.
