The Vibrant Tradition of Drum-Making in Odisha’s Pahandi Village

Nestled in the Bijepur block of Odisha’s Bargarh district, the village of Pahandi is a hub of agricultural activity and rich cultural heritage, where the rhythmic beats of traditional drums, known as baja, resonate long before the festive celebrations begin. With approximately 530 households, the majority of the village’s inhabitants rely on farming, cultivating crops such as paddy, millets, green gram, and groundnuts. However, eight families from the Chamar community have preserved a unique tradition that intertwines their agricultural practices with the art of drum-making, sustaining their livelihoods through generations.

Judhisthir Sagar, affectionately referred to as ‘Kutru’ in the village, epitomizes this blend of farming and craftsmanship. “Drum-making is not just a profession; it is our identity,” he shared while expertly securing the strips on a newly crafted mrudanga, a two-headed percussion instrument integral to traditional music. He recounted how the craft has been passed down through his lineage, emphasizing its significance in their everyday lives. “We take pride in carrying this tradition forward,” Sagar added, showcasing the deep-rooted connection his community has with this ancient art form.

Pahandi is renowned for a variety of percussion instruments, including the godi mrudanga, udand khol, madol khol, dubi-tabla, pankuch, dhol, and nisan. Each instrument possesses its own distinct shape, sound, and cultural significance, contributing to the rich musical landscape of western Odisha. The process of crafting these instruments begins with selecting the right materials, from soil to animal hide, transforming them into resonant musical tools that are cherished in local festivities.

The art of drum-making in Pahandi is not merely a means of earning an income; it reflects a profound cultural narrative that has evolved over generations. The artisans’ dedication to their craft is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the reverence they hold for the traditional methods passed down through the years. In an era where modern instruments are increasingly dominating the music scene, the artisans of Pahandi strive to keep their heritage alive, ensuring that their unique sounds continue to echo in the hearts of future generations.

As festivals approach, the anticipation builds not only for the joyous celebrations but also for the reverberating sounds of the baja, a musical heartbeat that unites the community. The artisans’ commitment to preserving this unique craft in the face of modernization is a testament to their resilience and pride in their cultural identity, making Pahandi a quintessential example of how tradition and livelihood can harmoniously coexist.

Source: scroll.in