Urmila Pandey, a 65-year-old veteran artist, has dedicated her life to the preservation and promotion of Bundeli folk music. It’s her tireless efforts that Bundeli folk songs today hold a significant place in the world of traditional music. A-grade artist at Akashvani Chhatarpur, her love for folk and traditional songs has been a lifelong passion. Urmila Pandey has dedicated her entire life to Bundeli folk music, ensuring that its legacy remains alive for generations to come. Her efforts have created a platform for young artists to connect with their roots and find pride in their culture.

Today, she runs Poonam Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, an academy where she provides training in folk music. Additionally, she teaches at the Sangeet Natak Akademi in Delhi. One of the Chorus in the group is Saumya Tiwari, a 22-year-old artist, who has been learning from her for the past six years. Saumya finds inspiration in her guru’s passion and commitment. 

Alongside Saumya is Avadhesh Kumari Rawat, another 22-year-old artist who has been studying folk music under Urmila ji for the last four years. Avadhesh, having grown up surrounded by music, decided to formally pursue it as a career.

The group accompanying Urmila Ji is as diverse as her songs. On the Dholak, there’s Jeetendra Nagar, a 38-year-old artist who began his musical journey at 19. He not only plays the Dholak but is also skilled in Harmonium and Tabla. 

Manjira is played by Bhaskar Yadav, a 35-year-old folk musician who developed an early interest in music under the guidance of his father, a music teacher. Bhaskar credits Urmila Ji for deepening his connection to folk traditions and shaping his journey as an artist.