Tune in for a special evening of Sufi and Rajasthani folk music

PUNE: Their characteristic Rajasthani attire and instruments — kamaycha, kartal and dholak — transport listeners to the mystical realms of traditional Rajasthani folk and Sufi music. Meet the Manganiyar Folk Fusion, a group of professional musicians from Rajasthan.

In a conversation with TOI on Thursday, before their upcoming performance in the city as part of the Times Pune Smart Week, members of The Manganiyar Folk Fusion spoke of their passion for music.

The group was founded by Manjoor Khan, a name that finds special mention in the

folk music

circuit of Rajasthan. Jameel Khan, the vocalist of the outfit and Manjoor’s brother, said that manganiyars are musicians hailing from Barmer and Jaisalmer and have inherited the ability to sing from their ancestors. “Our forefathers were singers too and that is how we came to imbibe the art. For generations, manganiyar’s have performed in the palaces of kings and aristocrats. We present a form of Sufi music, inspired by poems penned by mystic saints such as Baba Farid, Bulleh Shah, Kabir and Amir Khusro,” said Khan.

The folk singer added that manganiyars are simple in their presentation but possess profound knowledge of the musical art. “Our forefathers would practice from day until night and we grew up watching them chisel their art. Like us, our children too have become adept in Rajasthani folk and Sufi music. Our art is God’s beautiful gift to us,” he said.

Asking Khan what he thinks of Pune’s audience elicits a quick reply, “We have been performing in Pune since the last 25 years. The city is brimming with proficient singers, who appreciate traditional music, irrespective of the form. Pune has keen listeners, who not only cherish music but also possess the ability to practice it.”

Meanwhile, an installation dedicated to the CRPF jawans, who lost their lives in the Pulwama terror attack, was installed on FC Road on Thursday. The art installation has been conceived by artist Aditya Shirke in collaboration with the organizers.

The events at Times Pune Smart Week are attracting art lovers and artists alike. “This project, started by Pune Smart City, has given me an amazing platform to connect with a lot of artists from across the country as well as with Punekars. Pune SMART Week is a great way of building awareness towards art and artists,” said senior artist Suhas Bahulkar.

Noted actor Sachin Khedekar echoed similar sentiments. “I want to call out for maximum artists to be a part of Pune SMART Week. Come, connect and celebrate,” he said.


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