Musical Resilience: Performing Patronage in the Indian Thar Desert

Shalini Ayyagari explores how professional low-caste musicians from Rajasthan, India, have reinvented their cultural and economic value in postcolonial India, using resilience to understand how they sustain and enliven their cultural significance after the fading of traditional patronage.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 08 November 2022
Publisher: Wesleyan University Press

Shalini Ayyagari's Musical Resilience explores the remarkable journey of professional low-caste musicians from the Thar Desert borderland of Rajasthan, India, as they skillfully reinvented their cultural and economic value in postcolonial India. Prior to India's independence in 1947, the Manganiyar community of hereditary musicians was deeply intertwined with traditional patrons, bound by centuries-old ties and hereditary relationships. However, postcolonial India witnessed a significant shift in the dynamics of traditional patronage due to new political conditions, technological advancements, and cultural transformations. Ayyagari employs the concept of resilience, a powerful and relevant term in today's world, to delve into the mechanisms that enable Manganiyar musicians to sustain and revitalize their cultural significance in the aftermath of the fading of traditional patronage.

The Manganiyar community, known for their unique musical style and instruments, faced significant challenges during the colonial era. They were often marginalized and excluded from mainstream society, relegated to performing at weddings and other local events. However, despite these obstacles, the Manganiyar musicians maintained a strong sense of identity and pride in their music. They continued to perform and pass on their traditions to future generations, even in the face of adversity.

One of the key factors that contributed to the resilience of the Manganiyar musicians was their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. They embraced new technologies, such as recording and broadcasting, which allowed them to reach a wider audience and gain recognition beyond their local communities. They also developed new musical styles and genres, blending traditional elements with contemporary influences.

Another important aspect of their resilience was their strong sense of community. The Manganiyar musicians were closely knit, with families and communities often living together in small villages. They relied on each other for support and encouragement, and this sense of community helped them to weather the storms of change.

Despite the challenges they faced, the Manganiyar musicians have continued to thrive in postcolonial India. They have become a symbol of cultural pride and identity, and their music has been celebrated worldwide. They have performed at prestigious venues, including the Royal Albert Hall in London and the Sydney Opera House in Australia, and have collaborated with artists from various genres.

One of the most significant achievements of the Manganiyar musicians has been their ability to preserve their traditional music and instruments. They have established music schools and training programs, which have helped to ensure that the next generation of musicians can continue to perform and preserve the Manganiyar musical heritage. They have also worked to promote their music through various media channels, including social media and music festivals.

In addition to their musical achievements, the Manganiyar musicians have also played a significant role in social and economic development in their communities. They have provided employment opportunities for many people, particularly in the tourism industry, and have contributed to the preservation of traditional arts and crafts.

However, despite their success, the Manganiyar musicians continue to face challenges. They face competition from other musicians and genres, and they struggle to maintain their traditional way of life in the face of rapid urbanization and globalization. They also face challenges related to access to education and healthcare, which can impact their ability to perform and create music.

To address these challenges, the Manganiyar musicians have been working with various organizations and governments. They have received funding for their music schools and training programs, and they have been involved in advocacy efforts to promote their music and cultural heritage. They have also worked to preserve their traditional lands and habitats, which are essential for the survival of their music and culture.

In conclusion, Shalini Ayyagari's Musical Resilience is a fascinating exploration of the resilience of professional low-caste musicians from the Thar Desert borderland of Rajasthan, India. Through the concept of resilience, Ayyagari sheds light on the mechanisms that enable Manganiyar musicians to sustain and revitalize their cultural significance in the aftermath of the fading of traditional patronage. The Manganiyar musicians have demonstrated their ability to adapt to changing circumstances, develop new musical styles and genres, and maintain their strong sense of community. Despite the challenges they face, they continue to thrive in postcolonial India, and their music and cultural heritage are a source of pride and inspiration for people around the world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780819500090