High in the Himalayan hills, where the air carries the scent of pine and the whispers of age-old tales, Roshan Lal weaves the story of his community through music. A proud musician of the Gaddi tribe in Himachal Pradesh, Roshan plays the Rubana—a 150-year-old string instrument handcrafted from Chir wood. Alongside the khanjari and ghungroo, his melodies capture the soul of his heritage. His wife, Kanchan, complements his performances with her melodious voice and rhythmic beats of the kalsi (cymbals). Together, they bring the Gaddi community’s devotion to nature and Lord Shiva to life.
However, life in the mountains has not been easy. Winters forced Roshan and his family to migrate to lower altitudes in search of opportunities to make ends meet. Despite his undeniable talent, Roshan’s art was confined to small, local gatherings. His earnings were meager, and his instruments often bore the brunt of neglect due to financial hardships.
Recognizing the depth of his talent and the cultural significance of his music, Anahad documented his performances professionally under its BackPack Studio initiative. Along with the recordings, we created a digital identity for Roshan, giving him a platform to connect directly with a wider audience and event organisers.
The exposure was transformative. Roshan’s traditional melodies reached far beyond the mountains, resonating with listeners across India. His digital presence brought invitations to perform at prestigious cultural festivals, and his income tripled as he began charging higher fees for his performances. For the first time, his art provided both recognition and financial stability.
But the impact went beyond finances. With his newfound income, Roshan repaired his cherished Rubana, acquired better instruments, and ensured a brighter future for his children. His sons, inspired by their father’s journey, began learning to play traditional instruments, continuing the legacy of Gaddi music.
Roshan also became a mentor, teaching young musicians in his community the nuances of Gaddi folk music. Through his efforts, he ensured that the traditions of his tribe would not only survive but thrive in the modern world. His music became a bridge between the past and the present, preserving the stories of his ancestors while captivating contemporary audiences.
Today, Roshan Lal stands as a symbol of cultural revival. His journey from a struggling artist in the mountains to a celebrated musician on national platforms exemplifies the power of opportunity and determination. With the support of the Anahad, Roshan turned his passion into a sustainable livelihood, ensuring that the melodies of the Gaddi community will continue to echo through generations. His story reminds us that when tradition meets opportunity, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
