Indian rhythm and percussive instruments have attracted musicians and music-lovers across cultures and continents. Indian drums are heard and seen in virtually every situation—in traditional music, cross-cultural music projects, or even on Hollywood soundtracks. Some are seen and heard in more than one context, depending upon the skill of the drummers and the ability of the drums to lend themselves to different situations. Many drums are employed in folk and religious music genres, while others are used in art music and even extend themselves to other musical forms. In the present world of digital technology, drums are used in musical experiments that are far removed from tradition, and are often played by self-trained drummers. Not only does this indicate the capacity of these instruments to adapt to diverse musical situations, but it also speaks volumes about the artistry of the percussionists. Dhamaal is a celebration of drumming traditions from India. It represents India’s cultural diversity as reflected through her music, particularly through percussion traditions. For several centuries, these traditions have run parallel, have intersected or have worked in isolation. Significantly, they have not threatened each other and have in fact lived in harmony. Drummers in Dhamaal come from various parts of the country to weave a tapestry of rhythm with other musicians. They bring to the collaboration the special language and technique that is associated with their instruments. While the focus of Dhamaal is on percussion traditions, the performance is equally grounded in melody and song-text.
