In the Pahadi region, women are respected and seen as equals to men, a truly heartwarming aspect of their culture. Traditionally, when men went out to earn a living, women managed the household, took care of the fields, and performed all other domestic duties. They were, in a way, the heads of the household. Daughters, just like sons, helped with all the chores, reflecting the deep-rooted sense of equality.
Today, we are going to learn about Monika Arya, a young female artist whose story embodies this spirit of equality. Monika, a passionate musician from childhood, holds a BA in music. She married into a family equally dedicated to music, which has been a significant factor in her ability to pursue her passion alongside her family. Monika, a mother, skillfully balances her household responsibilities with her musical career.Monika’s group includes her husband and brother-in-law as accompanists. They perform traditional forms like Jhoda, Chhapeli, and Chachari, and enjoy writing and creating new songs. Their youthfulness brings fresh experiments and colors to their music.
The group features Harish Ram on Hudka, who also enjoys singing; Jagmohan Agari on Harmonium, who sings alongside Monika; and Chandan Kumar, an expert in percussion instruments, on Dholak.
When Monika and her group arrive at the shoot location, it feels like a family affair. Her aunt, husband, brother-in-law, and even her little daughter, who has just learned to walk, are all present. The artists bring their traditional costumes, which they change into before the performance. After two tiring recordings, we take a break to let them get ready and set up our recording equipment.
Soon, they return, transformed and unrecognizable, with Monika looking like a bride and all the artists donning shimmering outfits and Pahadi Topis. As they take their places, we hear the sounds of army practice sessions from the nearby Almora cantonment area, causing us to delay the recording further. Monika and her group start practicing, attracting local women who bring their cows and goats to graze and end up becoming our audience. At one point, a cow falls into a ditch, and the artists rush to help, showcasing their compassion.
With the army practice session over, we begin recording. Monika explains that their first song will feature lines from Jhoda and Chhapeli, dance forms where villagers make long circles during festivals and religious occasions. The song “O Bhauja Meri” depicts playful banter between a sister-in-law and her brother-in-law. Monika and Jagmohan perform it with such joy and authenticity, making it feel like a real conversation.
The second song, “Pahad Thando Pani,” is a Pahadi folk song expressing the singer’s love for the mountains. The lyrics poetically describe mountain life and convey the deep emotional attachment to the serene Himalayan landscape. Monika’s sweet voice feels like a happy bird chirping, capturing us all in her melody.
By the time the recording ends, a lot of time has passed. The group packs up their instruments, and Monika and her family set up a picnic-like atmosphere in the beautiful forest, inviting us to join them. Although we long to enjoy the homemade meal amidst the trees, our schedule forces us to move on to other interviews in Almora. We leave, but the experience leaves us with a promise to return for such delightful moments again.
Monika Arya’s story shows the spirit of equality and the mix of old and new in the Pahadi region. Her journey, with her family’s support, highlights the lasting connection between music, family, and culture.
