The word Dholru intrigued us the moment we heard it. At first, we assumed it referred to a musical instrument, but to our surprise, the locals explained it was actually the name of a festival. Celebrated during the month of Dholru, this unique tradition involves a community travelling from house to house, singing songs of the season. For the people of the region, these songs are considered deeply auspicious, a celebration of life, harvest, and their connection to nature.
Our curiosity led us to meet a couple from the Dholru community—Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi. This duo has dedicated their lives to preserving the rich heritage of Kangra folk music. Uttam is a full-time musician, while his wife, Ikko Devi, manages their home and passionately upholds her cultural traditions.
The music played by Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi stands apart from other regional sounds. Uttam plays the Dholki, a percussion instrument that provides a rhythmic foundation, while Ikko Devi’s soulful voice is accompanied by the soft chime of her Manjra. Together, they create a melody that resonates deeply with the culture and emotions of their community.
One of their unique offerings is a traditional Hindu New Year folk song for the month of Baisakh, also known as Dholru. These songs celebrate the harvest, rain, and local deities while marking the transition of seasons. The couple is among the last remaining artists who perform these traditional songs, keeping alive a fading art form.
When we approached Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi to hear their music, they were initially hesitant. The month of Dholru had long passed, and they were reluctant to perform outside its auspicious time. Understanding their concern, we suggested a secluded location—a serene rock in the middle of the Beas River. Surrounded by the gushing waters, the natural setting seemed to honor their sacred tradition.
With our wireless recording setup in place, the couple finally agreed to perform. As they began singing, the sound of their music intertwined with the roaring river, creating an unforgettable moment of harmony between human and nature.
Their repertoire includes songs for a variety of occasions—celebrations of rain, weddings, new beginnings, and even unique rituals. One such song is performed during a ceremony to help someone struggling to get married. In this tradition, statues of Lord Krishna and Radha are married in a symbolic ceremony and then floated away in a water body.
Through their music, Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi bring these rituals to life, connecting their listeners to the stories and spirituality of their heritage.
Despite their talent and cultural significance, the couple faces financial hardships. They perform at weddings and festivals, earning a modest ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 per show—barely enough to sustain themselves in today’s world. Yet, they remain unwavering in their commitment to their art.
For Uttam and Ikko, music is not just a means of livelihood; it is a way of life, a bridge to their ancestors, and a gift to their community. Their dedication to preserving Dholru folk music is both inspiring and humbling.
Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi are more than just performers—they are custodians of a priceless cultural legacy. Their music tells the story of a community, a season, and a way of life that is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world.
As we listened to their songs, it became clear that their work deserves greater recognition and support. Folk traditions like Dholru are not just entertainment; they are a reflection of our collective history, values, and identity.
The story of Uttam Chand and Ikko Devi is a reminder of the importance of preserving traditional art forms. Their music, steeped in history and spirituality, is a treasure that must be celebrated and supported.
As we parted ways with the couple, the melodies of their songs lingered in our minds, a testament to the enduring power of folk music to touch hearts and inspire change. In their voices, we heard not just a celebration of the Dholru season but a call to cherish and protect the cultural roots that bind us all.
