WOMAD

Dhoad Gypsies of Rajasthan

From India

With the adaptability that has typified gypsy culture down the centuries, the Dhoad family today have their own MySpace site, but they hail from the wild and magnificent Thar desert in Rajasthan - the historic land which inspired the Maharajahs to build their sumptuous forts and palaces. Rajasthan is also the original land of the gypsies, who centuries ago became troubadours and wandering musicians, poets, dancers and fakirs travelling endlessly around north-western India to entertain princes and their courtiers. The Dhoad Gypsies are the inheritors of that rich tradition, creating passionate music of majestic climaxes, punctuated by gentle gestures and enchanting tunes in songs which tell of epic heroism of their forefathers. The troupe all come from Rajasthan, but are drawn from different communities, religions (Muslim and Hindu) and castes. Together they create a magical extravaganza of breathtaking sound enhanced by a whirlwind of glittering, shimmering colours and dance.
(Biography by Nigel Williamson)

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