Nepal’s cultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its folk music, a vibrant thread that connects various aspects of Nepali life. Among the most significant of these traditions is the sarangi, a traditional bowed string instrument that has long been used to tell stories and express the daily lives and emotions of the Nepali people. Historically, the sarangi has been predominantly played by men, particularly those from the Gandharba or Gaine caste, who served as musical storytellers across the country.
Despite the integral role of music in Nepali culture, women have faced significant barriers to entry in the field. Social norms and traditional gender roles have limited their participation, creating a scarcity of female role models in folk music. This lack of representation has perpetuated a cycle where few women pursue music—especially folk styles like sarangi playing, due to a lack of encouragement and visible success stories.
Current Situation of Folk Music in Nepal
Folk music in Nepal is at a critical juncture. While it remains a crucial part of cultural expression, globalization and modern music influences have contributed to a gradual decline in traditional music practices, especially among the younger generation. The commercial music scene in Nepal is predominantly urban and modern, often overshadowing traditional genres and further marginalizing folk musicians.
For women, the situation is even more challenging. There are very few female sarangi players, and those who do exist rarely gain the same recognition or opportunities as their male counterparts. This disparity is not only a reflection of the music industry but also of broader societal attitudes toward women in the arts.
The Vision: Taking Sarangi Global through Women Empowerment
Project “Women in Folk” is a visionary initiative aimed at revitalizing and transforming the tradition of sarangi playing by positioning women at the forefront of its global resurgence. This project seeks to serve as a catalyst for introducing the unique sounds of the sarangi to a worldwide audience, utilizing the talent and fresh perspectives of Nepali women.
Our approach is centered around providing free sarangi classes for women each year, giving them the skills and platform to pursue this traditional art form. Our success story is the testament to this vision—a female student, once a beginner in the program, is now our first female sarangi teacher, empowering other women to follow in her footsteps.
Through this project, we aim to break down gender barriers in the folk music scene, offering opportunities for women to excel and be recognized for their contributions to Nepali music. By supporting women in the arts, we not only preserve a traditional art form but also create a more inclusive and diverse musical community, one that resonates both within Nepal and across the world.