I had the opportunity to speak with Sarika from the Meeting Point Podcast about what I love: the djembe, drum circles and the work done with Taal Inc (especially with drum circles for a wide range of groups) 

Here’s a summary of the podcast. In this episode, we explored the origins and significance of music, focusing particularly on the djembe, a traditional West African goblet drum. I talk about the evolution of music, starting from women clapping and singing to the inclusion of drumming in ceremonial and communal events and how the djembe holds a critical place in West African culture, serving as an instrument of equality and connection. We discussed how these culturally specific group drumming events evolved into what we know now as drum circles. Depending on who we work with they would be known as corporate drum circles, wedding drum circles, healing drum circles and so on… We also touched upon how contemporary health perspectives recognize the holistic benefits associated with music, mirroring the cultural practices surrounding the djembe (and also other traditional percussion instruments). I shared insights on the psychological and physiological benefits of this instrument while drawing parallels between its use in African and Indian musical traditions. The episode highlights the communal and therapeutic potential of music, underscoring the importance of rhythm as a tool for emotional expression and community-building. I went over anecdotes from my career including performances for notable personalities like Michelle Obama and collaborations with leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Sri. Narendra Modi. I illustrated the transformative power of music and drumming. The podcast encapsulates the rich tapestry of West African drumming traditions and invites listeners to engage with the cultural significance of the djembe.

  • Origins of Sound: Music began with women singing and clapping, evolving into drumming with groups to support these everyday activities.
  • Cultural Relevance of the Djembe: The djembe serves as a vital communal instrument in West African rituals.
  • Holistic Health Perspectives: Modern views on health recognize the mental and physical benefits of music, akin to the djembe’s cultural significance. This is also seen in parallel with other traditional percussion instruments such as the Dhol, the Cionga and so on…
  • Mind-Body Connection: Learning the djembe or any percussion instrument requires a deep connection between physical skill and mental understanding.
  • Shared Celebrations: The djembe accompanies significant life events, enhancing the community spirit and truly bringing people from all walks of life together.
  • Global Connections: Online learning challenges during the pandemic reveal the balance between technology and in-person experiences. The djembe’s origin tells a broader story of music as a communal experience. It demonstrates how music and drumming have consistently bridged social and cultural divides within communities, fostering a sense of belonging.
  • Psychological Benefits: The act of drumming not only serves as a form of self-expression but also provides substantial mental health benefits, reinforcing the therapeutic powers of rhythmic activities in healing and emotional release.
  • Collective Experience of Drumming: The traditional drum circle embodies principles of equality and unity, emphasizing that music is not solely about performance but rather about shared experiences and emotional connections among participants.

To sum it all up, we can have drum circles for any occasion. This podcast emphasizes the importance of music in cultural heritage and psychological well-being, demonstrating how instruments like the djembe, dhol, and rhythm overall play a critical role in community bonding and individual expression. 

What’s your reason to drum?
Come. Drum. Be One. 
Varun Venkit
Taal Inc.