Lala Gulab Shinde

Lala Gulab Shinde, a 49-year-old musician from Veer, Pune, Maharashtra, has been immersed in music for over 32 years. Despite having only a 2nd-grade education, Lala plays the tun tuna and is also an accomplished singer. Music is a family tradition, passed down from his grandfather, Pandurang Nana Shinde, who taught him the art. Lala is knowledgeable in several folk styles, including Devi Chi Gani, Abhang, Gavlan, and Khandobachi Gani. He has showcased his talent in Pune, Solapur, Malegaon, and other areas, connecting with a wide range of audiences. For Lala, music is not just a passion; it is also a crucial source of income. His life is intertwined with this art form, which links him to his cultural roots. Lala advocates for government support to help folk artists like himself, emphasizing the need for policies that preserve and promote traditional music for future generations.