Kashi Damru traced Indian music’s spiritual heartbeat through rhythm

On the Carnatic kutcheri medai, the kanjira is referred to as an upa pakkavadyam (secondary supporting instrument). Over the years, however, this modest frame drum has moved beyond its traditional role, finding a place in percussion ensembles and cross-genre collaborations. Its practitioners are increasingly rediscovering the instrument’s versatility, experimenting the sonic possibilities. This spirit of exploration was evident at Kashi Damaru, a Hindustani music-based percussion presentation conceived by Jagadeesh Kurthkoti. It was performed as part of the Samatva Sambhrama Music Festival, organised by kanjira artiste Guruprasanna, at Bengaluru’s Chowdiah Memorial Hall.