Naveen Singh Bisht, a 71-year-old artist from Sarsue village in Almora, is a stalwart of Kumaoni folk music. Born in 1952, Bisht has dedicated his life to the preservation and promotion of traditional folk songs, drawing from a rich legacy rooted in his family’s cultural practices.

Raised in a Rajput family, Bisht’s early exposure to music came from his mother, who adorned traditional attire and sang folk songs, and his father, who was also a musician. This deep immersion in the local cultural milieu shaped his passion for folk music, which he continues to cherish and uphold.

Bisht’s repertoire spans various forms of Kumaoni folk music, including Chhapeli, Chanchari, jhoda, and Bair-Bhagnaul etc. He performs with traditional instruments such as the Bansuri, Matka, and Hudka, deliberately avoiding modern instruments like synthesizers to maintain the authenticity of the folk tradition. His performances are a testament to his commitment to preserving the purity of folk music, reflecting his dedication to keeping the essence of these traditions intact.

Beyond performing, Bisht is also a poet who writes in Kumaoni and Hindi. His literary work includes a book with four plays focused on Kumaoni culture, enriching his musical contributions with a broader cultural narrative. His humble approach to his craft and his willingness to share his knowledge highlight his dedication to cultural preservation.

His ongoing efforts to teach and promote folk music underscore his deep-rooted commitment to maintaining the traditional art form. For Bisht, folk music is not merely a career but a profound, heartfelt passion that he strives to pass on to future generations.