The Rajasthan International Folk Festival is about communities, traditions and threatened forms. What will you focus on this year?
We’ll look at the storytelling form Kaavad—a mobile shrine as well as a repository of epic stories, Maand and Jaangda, and Jasnathji Ke Bhope, who are ritual fire-walkers.
Are there tribal groups holding on to Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage?
Yes, many. Like Kathodi, Kalbeliya, Langa, Manganiyar, Jogi, Bhopa-Bhopi, Meghwal, Bhil, Garasia, Dholi, Merasi, Kamad.
Kavaad Banchana sounds mystical. Is the oral tradition of storytelling being reinvented?
There are both spiritual and mystical elements.
How would you blend Rajasthani with the Western and oriental in the fusion concerts?
With the help of a musical interlocutor, the artists explore each others’ music. Collaborations amongst Jeff Lang, Bobby Singh, Asin Langa and Bhungar Manganiyar is part of the showcase.
The Sikar Gharana finds a special spot.
Other than traditional music, there will be new compositions from its younger musicians.
Tell us something about the Yemen Blues?
They’ve made waves. At RIFF they’ll combine Arabic chants, African rhythms, funky chatter.
There are many percussion artists; what are some of the rare sounds we’ll hear?
The Chang, Bhapang, Nagara, Derun, and popular ones like Khartal, Dholak, Dhol and Morchang.
There’s an impressive lineup of artistes from Greece, Senegal, Reunion Island etc too!
Look out for Senegalese artists Malick and Bao on the kora, hoddu and guitar, Shooglenifty from Scotland and Maga Bo and Sandro from Brazil.
Do you plan to take RIFF elsewhere?
We’ve had invites from Netherlands, Scotland, Norway and Australia.
Anything special from Mick Jagger?
Let’s wait and see.
