Rajasthan CM, Ashok Gehlot inaugurated – ‘Padharo Mhare Des’ Digital Covid Relief Concert Series. Renowned singer, promoter, Manesha A Agarwal’s Arpan Foundation has stepped in to support the state’s folk artists. Renowned artists Manesha Ram and group – Meghvals of Jaisalmer; Dapu Khan Mirasi of the ‘Mumal’ fame; Bundu Khan and band – Langas of Jodhpur; Thanu Khan and Tarif Khan of Chala Mama Project; Sugni Devi – the singing sensation of the Kalbeliyas – Jodhpur; and Mehboob Khan Langa, among others are participating in the concert series.

On the occasion, CM said that the initiative would support the artist community deprived of regular livelihood for several months. Folk artists are solely dependent on their art for livelihood. This is a unique concept to support such folk artists during the coronavirus crisis. Such initiatives can play a crucial role in the growth of art forms in the state and promote virtual tourism.

Founder, Arpan Foundation, Ms. Manesha Agarwal said, “We are extremely grateful to the honourable CM Shri Ashok Gehlot Ji for supporting this initiative. He has always given a boost to the state’s art and culture and his support is very encouraging for the folk artists and us”. Padharo Mhare Des Series will feature 70 folk artists from the interiors of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and Barmer.

The premiere episode of Padharo Mhare Des began with a Ganesh Vandana by Mahesha Ram and group from Jaisalmer. As a guest performance, Padma Bhushan Grammy Awardee Pandit Vishwamohan Bhatt played a rendition of Padharo Mhare Des on his creation, the ‘Mohan Veena.’ This was followed by folk music performances and dance by the Langas and Kalbeliyas from Jodhpur and Manganiyars from Barmer.

Arpan Foundation has extended humble monetary support to each of the 70 Folk Artists who were recorded. The Foundation will continue efforts to reach out to folk artists in the remote parts of the state.