When Africa and Rajasthan hum the same tune in Chennai

CHENNAI: Folk singers Devu and Gullu Khan may not have heard of the 13th century-old kora, the 21-stringed harp, before, but it is the powerful rhythm of this African instrument, which is linked to the oral tradition of storytelling that draws them to it.
Transcending boundaries of politics and language their collaboration with the West African artist Buba Badjie Kuyateh is a celebration of the power of music.It is with this idea that sounds from ancient Africa and the dunes of Rajasthan will meet on the shores of Chennai this Sunday for the Ruhaniyat music festival at the Madras Race Club.
Though separated by continents the artists share the same culture and tradition of music that dates back centuries, but still finds relevance today. While the Rajasthani folk singers from Jaisalmer belong to the Manganiyar community of musicians, who carry with them stories of conquests, empires and teachings of saints, Kuyateh represents the African griots in Gambia, the smallest country in that continent.
From the land of kora and belonging to a family of traditional musicians, the songs of the African artist in his native tongue are similar to the Indian folk singers as they talk about God, unity of people and history of the land. “I have been learning music from the age of seven, my father was my first teacher, but it was my grandfather, who took the kora to the global stage, who has inspired me. The responsibility of carrying on a legacy and its beauty captivates me,” says the 32-year-old singer who incorporates jazz, funk and blues to his performances.
“Though kora is a traditional instrument it is extremely flexible and open. The modern touch of jazz is not forced and only adds to the the experience.”
The Indo-African production is one such exploration which brings out hitherto unknown connections. Spreading the message of peace and harmony, 10-city musical caravan reaching with Chennai is a movement that helps highlight folk tradition of the country and the possibilities of blending different genres of music.
“The Indo-African performance is a connection of strong rhythms and soulful voices. The sound of the kora which I feel is a mix of the harp, guitar and piano gels well with the oldest Rajasthani bow and string instrument kamaycha. The combination was so beautiful that despite the barriers of language the artists created music that was completely new and refreshing ,” says the organiser of the festival Mahesh Babu, who brought the artists together.
The Rajasthani folk singers who are at ease with a Meera bhajan as they are with a Sufi rendition, say it is the truth in the songs of the yore that keeps it relevant and believe a strong beat can drum down all other trivial differences. One among the singers, Devu Khan, says it was the rhythm that guided the musicians into unchartered territories and helped create divine melody. “I believe it is the feeling in our music that stands out. On stage our acts are not rehearsed our hearts follow the music and the rest is magic,” says Khan.