Recently, Jhankaar the Band was introduced as a contemporary Indian music ensemble led by percussionist Samresh Rao, who aims to breathe new life into traditional Indian folk songs. The band has been actively performing across Fiji, showcasing their unique blend of classical music infused with Bollywood hits and popular English songs.
Rao shared that their mission of promoting classical Indian music for a modern audience stems from a strong desire to preserve cultural heritage. He credited their founding member and mentor, Mr. Viveka Nand, a long-time educator at the Indian High Commission in Fiji. Nand has significantly influenced many local Indian musicians and consistently encouraged them to share the stories of their culture through music.
Jhankaar’s albums, Girmit Gatha Volume I and II, are a testament to this mission. They feature traditional lyrics reimagined with contemporary sounds, aiming to connect with the younger generation of Indian music fans. “We can’t keep using old instruments like the tabla and harmonium in every new composition,” Rao noted. With platforms like TikTok and Facebook shaping music consumption, the band believes it is essential to offer fresh sounds while honoring traditional folk tunes.
Rao pointed out that within Fiji’s Indian music scene, there is a scarcity of original compositions, as most artists focus primarily on Bollywood covers. To address this gap, Jhankaar is dedicated to producing original songs, helping listeners recognize that Indian music extends beyond Bollywood.
As the band continues to gain traction, they maintain a commitment to making a significant impact on the local music landscape. Their concerts strive to honor the songs from their albums alongside a diverse repertoire, including Bollywood covers, English classics, and even a few iTaukei songs, emphasizing inclusivity in their performances. By blending various musical genres, Jhankaar seeks to engage a wide audience while showcasing their versatility.
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