Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh lies Peej Village, a scenic hamlet located just 5 kilometres from Kullu town. Perched at the top of the valley, Peej offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush green fields, and a majestic temple standing at its heart. This temple, sacred to the community, holds deep cultural significance for the local artists who have performed there since childhood. For the talented Inder Singh Chandani and his group, this location symbolizes both their roots and their journey through music.
Led by Inder Singh Chandani, an accomplished vocalist and musician, this troupe of folk artists is a testament to unity, talent, and cultural preservation. Inder Singh, who identifies as a Bajantri from the Thakur community, started learning music at the young age of 14. Over four decades, he has dedicated his life to mastering the art of folk singing, inspiring younger generations to embrace their cultural heritage.
What makes this group exceptional is their diversity. While they come from small villages across the Kullu district, their rhythm, coordination, and camaraderie make it seem as though they have always belonged to the same community. This seamless harmony is further enhanced by their expertise in playing traditional instruments such as the Karnal, Shehnai, Dhol, and Nagada. Together, they breathe life into the melodies of Himachal Pradesh, transporting listeners to the tranquil hills and vibrant festivals of the region.
Inder Singh and his group are deeply connected to Nati, the traditional folk dance of Himachal Pradesh. This centuries-old art form is integral to the cultural identity of the state. Nati is performed on all joyous occasions, including festivals like International Kullu Dussehra and Losar—the Himachali New Year, which is celebrated in April and traces its roots to Tibetan culture.
There are at least seven distinct types of Nati, including Kulluvi Nati, Sirmauri Nati, and Lahauli Nati. While most Natis begin at a slow tempo, the rhythm builds up over time, intensifying to a crescendo that leaves both dancers and musicians exhilarated. For Inder Singh and his group, performing Nati is not just about entertainment; it is a celebration of tradition, community, and the timeless beauty of the hills.
Inder Singh’s journey in music has been one of dedication and resilience. Inspired by renowned artists like S.D. Kashyap and Dharmendra Sharma, he has composed a rich repertoire of Bhajans (devotional songs) and folk melodies. His compositions explore themes of devotion, love, social issues, and patriotism, blending Pahari dialects with Hindi to appeal to a broader audience.
In 1985, Inder Singh’s first performance—a heartfelt farewell song—earned him praise and recognition. This marked the beginning of a remarkable career that would take him across all districts of Himachal Pradesh and to cities beyond. His most notable milestone came in 1990, when he performed alongside an international orchestra, showcasing his versatility and talent on a global stage.
Despite his achievements, Inder Singh remains grounded. He proudly shares stories of his two children—one serving in the army and the other skilled in plumbing—reflecting his belief in balancing tradition with progress.
Inder Singh Chandani dreams of creating an enduring legacy for folk music. Through his proposed institute, Shri Krishna Kala Sansthan, he aims to provide aspiring artists with the opportunity to learn, preserve, and promote Himachali folk culture. His vision is to take this music beyond borders, ensuring that the rich heritage of Himachal Pradesh reaches global audiences.
For Inder Singh, music is not just an art form; it is a way of life. It has the power to uplift communities, connect people, and preserve the stories of generations past. His group, including seasoned artists like Chaman Lal and Puran Chand, continues to inspire with their commitment to cultural preservation and artistic excellence.
The beauty of Inder Singh’s group lies in their dedication to tradition and their shared love for music. Whether performing at village temples, local festivals, or international platforms, they carry with them the soul of the mountains. Their music—enriched with the melodies of the Karnal, Shehnai, and Nagada—is a celebration of Himachal Pradesh’s cultural wealth.
In the tranquil village of Peej, with the majestic temple overlooking their performances, Inder Singh and his group remind us of the timeless power of music to unite, inspire, and preserve heritage. Their journey is a story of struggle, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to tradition—an echo of the hills that continues to resonate across generations.
