Dhrupad Sadhana is an exploration of diverse voices of dhrupad artists around the world. Emphasizing universal human values, we delve into the inspiration and motivation that drive artists of all ages to keep this ancient musical form thriving in the 21st century. Each interview is a unique and insightful journey into the world of dhrupad, offering a glimpse into the rich history and cultural significance of this timeless musical tradition.
Whether you're a lifelong rasika or new to dhrupad, this artist driven series will inspire anyone interested in exploring the beauty and power of this captivating musical form. We believe that by engaging with the timeless wonder and meditative beauty of dhrupad, we become more sensitive human beings, and feel it’s power to bring people together in an experience of self-transcendent joy.
Join us on this journey of self-discovery, as we explore the magic of this amazing tradition together.
WhY DHRUPAD Sadhana?
One of the world’s oldest living music traditions, dhrupad is characterized by its deep focus, a patient meditative atmosphere with the sparse accompaniment of the tanpura and pakhawaj. An inter-faith practice, is has been traditionaly practiced by Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs and came into an appex in the Mughal courts of the 15th and 16th centuries and has been continuously practiced through four distinst banis (lineages) up to the present day.
Sadhana is a term from Indian philosophy that refers to spiritual disciplines and are often connected with creative arts. Sadhana implies a daily committed effort towards a particular practice, often with the intention of cultivating inner growth, self-realization, or mastery.
We wish to show how men and women across India and the world are dedicating their lives to such a rare art form, a music which is under appreciated and requires many years of arduous discipline, study and practice.
VALUES
The Dhrupad Sadhana project is a celebration of this rich tradition, an ancient musical form that holds immense value and relevance in the 21st century. We are committed to exploring universal human values, multi-faith dimensions, and the motivations of contemporary dhrupadiyas (performers) around the world.
We seek to create an inclusive platform for inter-generational dialogue and collaboration, bringing together voices from different backgrounds and experiences to share their love and passion for dhrupad.
Our vision is for the project to contribute to a more vibrant musical future for all people who are interested in traditions that are deeply rooted in but not stuck in the past. We hope that the growth and expansion of this musical tradition, may be encouraged by a such a space online.
At this point these interviews have focused on artists of the Dagar Bani lineage. We are in the process of recruiting other artists to conduct interviews and broaden the field to artists of the Khandahar, Gohar and Nauhar Banis as well and interview pakawaj players as well.
Special thanks to the AIIS (American Institute of American Studies) for their support of this work through Paul Livingstone’s 2022 research fellowship.
ViDEO Gallery
