Bonding with the beats

Infectious Rhythm

The Rangoli Metro Art Centre at the MG Road Metro Station buzzed with activity recently, as scores gathered to enjoy the beat of drums. During the interactive session, those who attended could try their hand at the drums. They were led by Roberto Narain and Vasundhara Das of the ‘Drumjam’ team.

The rhythm was infectious — as Roberto played, others followed suit and bonded with beats. Drums were being handed to anyone who wished to play and the entire space was reverberating with the sound.

The interactive rhythm-based act made heads turn, as people from all age groups were drawn towards the space and were keen to join in any way possible. While some decided to clap, others volunteered to take up a tambourine or a small drum to chip in. Roberto kept the rhythm energetic, power-packed and interesting. Though the session was supposed to last for only an hour, bystanders and the crowd did not mind staying back for another hour to enjoy the sound. Some could be seen shaking a leg to the catchy rhythm. Age was no bar and everyone — right from children to youngsters, middle-aged and even the elderly — participated with all the energy they had.

Ashish Dutta, a visitor, was instantly drawn towards the music and loved the ambience.

“My family and I took a ride on the Metro and were coming out of the station when we heard the drums. When we reached the Rangoli Metro Art Centre, we were shocked to see so many people. Many of them were playing the drums and clapping. It was so different and refreshing. I could see people connecting through music. It was a great experience and I wanted to join in,” he says.

Vasundhara Das was instrumental in egging people on to take up the tambourine and drums and join in the fun. Many young musicians from different parts of the City were also there and participated actively. Nikhil, a guitarist, was surprised to see the enthusiasm in everyone. “Some of them played the drums continuously for two hours.

Music brought people from many different walks of life together and was a huge stress-buster for all. Such spontaneous and interactive events make the weekend a lot of fun. It was truly a unique experience for me. I thank Vasundhara and Roberto for making my day,” he states.