Help the Folk Artists of Jaisalmer Survive The Pandemic

The lockdown implemented in India has put millions of lives at risk. It derailed the livelihoods of families from marginalized and underserved communities. We’ve heard of company layoffs, startups declaring bankruptcy, and so on. But, there are thousands of families of artists who're dependent on folk art. 

The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the folk artists in Rajasthan by forcing them to sit idle in their homes. For them, the future looks gloomy too. The lockdown has been their biggest challenge in preserving their traditional folk art. These artists are the flag bearers of Rajasthani folk dance and music.  

Rajasthan is famous for its rich cultural heritage. If you were to visit this state, you’d see folk artists dressed in bright red Ghagras, adorned with rich embroidery and beautiful ornaments. You would get lost in their charm before losing yourself to their music. These artists put on musical performances, magnificent dances, and amazing stage shows. 

Today, there are thousands of families in Jaisalmer who are dependent on folk music. This is their livelihood. 

“We have many aged artistes in our troupe who can only sit and sing songs. They are unable to do any other work. Many of them are poor and illiterate. We don’t know how we will survive,” said Kolekar, a 53-year-old folk artist from Rajasthan

Earlier, their troupe used to perform at folk festivals and events around Jaisalmer and could earn enough to feed their families. Today, they had no other choice but to sit idle at their homes. 

"Many young men know how to use technology. They are somehow raising a voice. We don’t even know how to use a phone. How can we survive?," said Prabhat Singh. 

The lockdown has deprived many folk singers like Prabhat of their livelihood. They are now on the verge of starvation. 

Due to the Corona scare and the rules imposed with regards to social distancing and public gatherings. Even after the lockdown has ended, the chances of these artists getting any work immediately are very narrow. 

Today, these folk artists in Rajasthan need your help to survive. By donating a grocery kit, you wouldn’t just help them feed their family. You’d help them preserve their rich cultural heritage, their art, and their legacy. 

Donate a grocery kit, so they too can feed their families. 

About Uday Vikas Samiti Mayajlar - Uday Vikas Samiti Mayajlar is a registered NGO in Jaisalmer working towards the welfare of folk artists. They mentor young children, teach them music and dance. Roje Khan, a prominent musical artist is also associated with them and has been a mentor to many children and upcoming artists. Amid the Corona pandemic and the nationwide lockdown, they are striving to help folk artists in the western part of Rajasthan. Roje khan, Latif Khan, Chanan Khan, Abdul Khan, Dayam Khan and Hamle Khan will conduct the distribution drives to provide grocery kits to the folk artists in Jaisalmer.

Note: Donations towards this fundraiser are not eligible for any tax deduction such as 80G, 501(c), etc.