In a world where cultural traditions often fade into oblivion, Govind Singh Bhati and Sharon Genevive are determined to ensure that Rajasthan’s rich folk music heritage not only survives but thrives. Their groundbreaking initiative, Lok Sangeet Shala, is empowering young artists from folk communities to reconnect with their cultural identity, bringing new life to an age-old musical legacy.
A Tradition on the Brink of Disappearance
Rajasthan’s folk music, once a vibrant part of the state’s cultural fabric, is now at risk. Instruments like the ghuraliya, once played by the Kalbeliya community of the Thar Desert, are becoming relics of the past. The reasons are manifold—ranging from changing societal attitudes toward folk arts to a lack of formal training for younger generations.
“It only takes a single generation to skip an art form for it to fade away,” Bhati explains. Born and raised in Western Rajasthan, he grew up surrounded by the sounds of folk instruments like the morchang (jaw harp) and alghoza (double flute), which his father and grandfather often played. This early exposure ignited his lifelong passion for preserving Rajasthan’s musical heritage.
In 2008, Bhati became an independent arts manager for Rajasthani artists, collaborating with institutions like the Mehrangarh Trust and Jaipur Virasat Foundation. Over time, however, he realized that while established artists had platforms, young aspirants lacked opportunities to learn and grow.
A Vision for Revival
In 2014, Bhati and Sharon Genevive launched BlueCity Walls, an initiative that organized shows, tours, and collaborations with local artists. But it was their establishment of Lok Sangeet Shala in 2023 that marked a transformative moment.
Unlike Indian classical music, which has a well-defined educational structure, Rajasthan’s folk music is passed down orally through generations. This residency program bridges that gap by offering a structured seven-day course for children aged 12 to 18. Participants learn folk vocals and instruments like the kamaicha, morchang, and murli directly from master artists, including Padma Shri awardee Lakha Khan Ji.
The residency fosters not only musical skills but also community harmony, breaking down barriers between traditionally segregated folk communities like the Langas, Meghwals, and Manganiyars.
A Viral Sensation
Bhati’s efforts to spotlight Rajasthan’s folk music bore fruit when his band Raitila Rajasthan went viral. Their debut song Mehman, featured in Netflix’s Mismatched Season 2, introduced audiences worldwide to the raw, soulful sound of Rajasthani folk music.
“We created bands and albums that represent true Rajasthani artists, not just the folk genre,” Bhati shares. Following the success of Mehman, the band’s next project, Kaisariya Rajasthan, also received acclaim, solidifying their place in contemporary music.
Empowering Women Through Music
One of the most remarkable achievements of Lok Sangeet Shala is its role in empowering women. In traditional folk communities, women have often been relegated to the background. However, Bhati and Sharon’s efforts are changing this narrative.
Young women like Ganga, a singer from a Meghwal family, have blossomed through the program. “I never thought I could reach this stage,” Ganga says, reflecting on her journey from singing at home to performing at public events.
This progress is a testament to the trust Bhati and Sharon have built within the community, encouraging families to support their daughters’ participation in folk music.
Healing Through Music
The residency has also created unique opportunities for cultural exchange and healing. At JIET University in Jodhpur, where the 2024 residency was hosted, music filled the campus gardens, even reaching patients in the nearby hospital.
“There was this one moment,” Bhati recalls, “when a son waiting for his father undergoing chemotherapy sat and listened to the music. It gave him a moment of peace in a difficult time.”
Sustaining Folk Artists
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for folk artists who rely on live performances for their livelihood. Sharon facilitated collaborations with platforms like My Mensa, enabling artists to perform live sessions online. This initiative not only provided financial support but also introduced these artists to new audiences.
The duo’s efforts culminated in Mehfil-e-Rajasthan, a series of 50 episodes featuring over 110 artists, now available on Spotify.
Keeping the Flame Alive
Through initiatives like Lok Sangeet Shala, Bhati and Sharon are proving that traditional art forms can adapt and thrive in the modern world. Their work serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of Rajasthani folk music, an art form so deeply rooted in tradition that it resonates through generations.
“It only took one Shri Ravi Shankar ji to bring the sitar to global prominence. Imagine what could happen if we gave folk music the same attention,” Bhati concludes.
With passionate individuals like Bhati and Sharon leading the way, Rajasthan’s folk music is not only finding its voice again but also capturing the hearts of audiences around the globe.
