Sukhdev Baburao Sathe, a 75-year-old folk artist from Vadner, is the heart and soul of this ensemble. A seventh-generation custodian of the Potraj tradition, he has devoted his life to keeping this sacred performance art alive. Drawn to the Halgi as a child, he gave his first performance at 16 and has never stopped since. Despite financial hardships, he ensured his son’s education by moving from house to house seeking Bhiksha, making him the first doctor in their community.  

Trained by his father and later mentored by Das Maharaj in 1992, Sukhdev ji’s performances blend devotion, storytelling, and rhythmic precision. His attire, painted with Haldi, Kumkum, and Bhasma, and his use of traditional jewelry and sacred symbols make his performances visually striking. His music is not just an art form but a spiritual and social dialogue, connecting deeply with rural audiences. With no government support, his wife has been his strongest pillar, enabling him to sustain both his art and family.  

This ensemble is a vibrant mix of musicians, percussionists, and singers, each deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s folk traditions. Suvarna Shinde, Sukhdev ji’s granddaughter, carries forward his musical legacy through her soulful renditions of Ambabai songs and Abhangas, having performed at major venues in Pune and Mumbai. Dhanashri Shinde, a master percussionist, has been playing instruments like Halgi, Tabla, and Pakhawaj since childhood, breaking stereotypes with her bold stage presence.  

Veteran artists like Shyam Chavan and Suman Jadhav bring decades of experience in singing Devi Geet and Bhajans, while Appa Gariba Shinde and Balasaheb Ballal keep folk traditions alive through their powerful Taal and percussion performances. Younger members like Dnyanada Dharmraj Sathe, though aspiring to a different career, still embrace their family’s musical heritage.  

Each member of this ensemble, whether a vocalist, instrumentalist, or storyteller, shares a deep commitment to preserving Maharashtra’s folk culture, ensuring that these traditions continue to resonate for future generations.