Aathun started as an idea with no concrete structure initially. When the idea of tapping folk artists of Rajasthan was suggested, the method was not well thought of. Slowly and steadily, the research in June began – we realized that the artists were suffering during the pandemic. The tourism industry was badly hit and so were their livelihoods.
The decision to ensure them work, not just during the pandemic, but also on regular days became one of our visions. But the most important vision was the vision of valorizing the folk music of Rajasthan by making it reachable to the millennials. The not-for-profit initiative, supported by Rajasthan Studio, curated its first folk event on 21st August 2020 on World Folklore Day.
As we bid our goodbyes to the year 2020, here’s a recap of everything that Aathun did this year:
1. Impactful documentation of Folk Instruments of Rajasthan
Aathun ki Dhun, or simply the musical journey of Rajasthan is all about the melodies of the state. Aathun is a Marwari word that literally translates to the west. These artists are connoisseurs of the local, Rajasthani musical instruments. Their instrument to them is like a plume to a writer. From Alghoza to Kamyacha and from Ravanhatha to Morchang, Aathun provides you all the instrumental information you may need.
2. The First 12 Aathun Episodes
Aathun perceived the threat of the lack of work for folk artists. Thus, we reached to them, built the trust, and invited them to a stage that belonged to them. From the nooks and corners of Rajasthan, artists received the right technical support to perform at a mutually agreed time. The artists that became part of our cause were Yusuf Khan, Shravan Kumar Gegawat, The Langa Brother, Mehboob Khan, Ghanshyam Ji Sharma, Sugnaram Ji, Zakir Khan Langa, Pade Khan & Group, Pream Chand Ji, Sadhunath Ji & Group, Jamuna Devi Ji, and Shyam Saini Ji & Group.
3. The lifelong association
The association with the artists was not limited to one time. It is an ongoing friendship that will never be compromised. From the very first event itself, these artists never wanted to beg or perform simply for money. The relief of playing again, after months of disassociation with their art was the best emotion for them. The participation of the family members, performance in their chowk/kuttiya, technical and visual jugaads by the artists, the sharing of musical information, and the recurring motifs of the state like the sand were seen throughout these events.
4. The Challenges
The first and foremost challenge was building trust. The mere assurance did not deem fit. It started with informing the artist about our initiative as well as about the brand Rajasthan Studio. Also, we mentioned the cause behind this initiative. We highlighted that the entire payment will be directly credited to their account. We only bridge the gap, we are no middlemen.
The next challenge that was a part of the parcel was the regular coordination. It is often not possible to find a technically advanced person in the family. But the sentiment of helping each other is omnipresent in every resident of Rajasthan. At times, even neighbors volunteered to help in curation. Also, the youngs in the family continuously stayed in touch with us.
The last, yet the most important challenge was the technicality. For someone who is not that technically sound, it was demanding to explain to them what Whatsapp, Google Pay/Paytm, and QR codes were. It was also taxing to ensure that the event was held with a prior tech-check. Even this did not assure that the event would be smooth. The repetitive network issues, the sound not reaching the artist, and the misplacement of the phone had to be properly taken care of.
5. Vision 2021
With an impact that has the ability to go crazy and become a possibility of global consumption, Aathun has some mad yet achievable visions in place. Primarily, Aathun will be hiring volunteers native to Rajasthan. This will enable the proper, live explanation of our concept, mission, and vision to the artist. Also, this involves the genuine collection and documentation of information as well as the required tech-checks. Anyone and everyone who are willing to contribute in preserving and aiding the folk artists of Rajasthan may fill the form here.
Additionally, the huge impact will be nearly impossible without the support of the artists themselves. This coming year, Aathun aims to bridge at least 1000 artists from the nooks and corners of Rajasthan and bring them closer to their internet consumers. More than that, publishing videos for the users to consume which allows them to contribute whenever they want will also be taken care of.
Aathun invites you on a journey you have never seen before. Come, witness the folk music of Rajasthan with Aathun.
