We’ve completed the recordings for 9 groups so far and still had 6 more to go when, unfortunately, one of our team members fell ill the previous night. Reluctantly, we decided we would have to leave the next morning to return to Delhi for medical treatment and postpone the remaining recordings. With all the artists’ schedules fixed, we began informing them about our emergency situation, explaining our need to return to Delhi immediately.
Expecting some of the artists to be upset for canceling on such short notice, we were instead met with concern and support. They expressed their sympathy and wished our team member a speedy recovery, offering to help in any way they could. Their understanding and kindness were truly heartwarming.
As we were packing and informing the artists, we spoke to Gopal Singh Chamyal, a talented artist who has been leading a folk music group for many years. Gopal suggested that if we could record early in the morning, he and his group would be ready at the designated location by 7 am. Given his dedication, we agreed to do one last recording before heading back to Delhi.
The next morning, we woke up at 5 am and reached the shoot location by 7 am with all our recording equipment. Despite his young age, Gopal has become a beloved figure among both young and seasoned artists due to his passion and dedication to music. Many artists credit Gopal for advancing their careers by providing performance opportunities and mentorship. True to his word, Gopal arrived on time with his group, ready to perform.
The first rays of the sun and the cool morning breeze created the perfect setting for our recording. The artists came prepared in their traditional attire to save time. Alongside Gopal, three other musicians were present, all of whom regularly perform with him at various shows. Gopal is known for his unique rendition of Jagar and other folk songs, presented in a style that resonates with young people.
This was our first time recording a tabla in Almora, played by Pramod. Accompanying him were Pankaj on the dholak and Mohit Kumar on the khanjari, who also provided vocals. Mohit considers Gopal his guru.
Jagar is an ancient form of folk song that means “to awaken.” In the villages of the mountains, it is a tradition to invoke the gods, inviting them to manifest through a person to listen to the people’s troubles and offer solutions. This is done through songs and mantras, making it a deeply spiritual and cultural practice. However, this tradition is fading, with fewer singers continuing it. Today, Gopal would perform this genre in his unique style.
The first song, “Nanda Stuti,” is a prayer invoking different forms of the Goddess, asking her to awaken. The song mentions various revered goddesses and narrates snippets of mythological stories, honoring the divine in its many forms. Gopal’s voice, along with the group, filled the air with reverence and devotion.
After discussing briefly with his group, Gopal introduced their next song, “Jhupryali Baanja.” This song celebrates nature and relationships in the Kumaon region. It praises the dense foliage of the Oak tree, inviting people to gather under its shade. The lyrics highlight social and familial bonds, encouraging brothers-in-law to plant taro with promises of help from sisters-in-law. The song paints a vivid picture of local landscapes, such as Almora’s red market and Nainital’s lake, blending natural beauty with cultural ties.
As the recording concluded, we felt a sense of sadness knowing this was our last session for the trip and that we would soon have to bid farewell to the enchanting Kumaoni culture. Gopal expressed his gratitude for accommodating his request and recording their songs before our departure. We thanked him and left for our hotel, hoping to return soon to continue serving these talented artists and their beautiful music.
