From the land of Dogras
Meet India's First All Girls Dogra Band
Varnika Pradhan & Aisha Bhargavi, XI
AIS Saket
Who can forget the mesmerising voices behind the musical masterpiece Kunjua - A Love Saga, penned by one of greatest Dogri poet Kunwar Viyogi. When three talented singers - Kriti Singh, Cherish Banhotra, and Kashika Bassi - took to the mic in October 30, 2022, they gave us India’s first all-girls Dogra band which is eponymously also called Dogra Girls. Infusing a fresh perspective into Dogri music, the band has made its place in the rising Indie music scene, and has earned critical acclaim for its unique blend of traditional Dogri folk songs and modern musical influences. Having trained under eminent Dogri music stalwart, Jitender Singh Jamwal, the band, has thrived under the patronage of Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Trust, Dr Karan Singh and Dogra Samaj Trust. GT presents their inspiring journey and passion for preserving the rich heritage of Dogri art and culture.
Back to roots
The band was formed under the guidance of Dogra Samaj Trust, an organisation formed with a vision to preserve Dogri culture. Initially unknown to each other, the girls were brought together by their parents who inspired them to revive the dying art form of traditional Dogri songs. “When the founder of Kunwar Viyogi Memorial Trust saw us perform together on stage, she named us Dogra Girls and invited us to record a song. This is how Kunjua happened,” says the chirpy trio in unison. “Recording the song was an unforgettable experience. Our voices blended beautifully as if they belonged together, it truly gave life to our passion!”
Musical legacy
Although none of the girls have had any formal training in music, all share a musical family background and in particular, a profound love for Dogri music. Kriti started singing at the age of four inspired by her father Jitender Singh Jamwal who himself is a renowned and versatile ghazal and Dogri singer. “He always includes Dogri songs in his performances and has shown me how to respect and revive our rich heritage,” she says. Kashika, on the other hand, inherited her musical acumen from her nanaji, Bhajan Samrat, Pandit Manmohan Singh. Cherish who has been singing ever since she remembers, shares a similar legacy, being the granddaughter of Pandit Vishwanath, a multifaceted musician, singer and storyteller, in the song and drama division of the radio.
Reviving Dogri art & culture
People often mistake Dogras of Jammu for being Kashmiris, even though Dogri culture has its distinct flavour and charm. “It’s so important for us to share the heart of Dogri culture and make sure it stands out on its own. We want people to appreciate our distinct identity and not see it as just another variation of Punjabi, Kashmiri or Himachali traditions,” says Kriti. For instance, Dogras are known for a fascinating tradition called Jaagarna, where women would stay up all night playing androgynous roles during weddings. Another unique aspect is Dogri Baakh which involves closing one ear and singing, a technique passed down through generations. “We felt that Dogras needed to become more vocal about their unique identity and, hence, we have also established Dogra Scouts with a vision to create a network of young Dogras from diverse backgrounds,” informs Kriti.
Balancing act
Despite focusing on their passion for Dogri music, the girls never gave up on their academics. Kriti is pursuing a master’s in political science and hopes to serve the nation as a civil servant, Kashika is an Economics (Hons) graduate who is pursuing MA in Kathak and wants to build a career in music and dance while Cherish, is a college graduate who is pursuing music professionally. “Integrating hobbies like dancing or singing into daily life is crucial for mental well-being and focus. It’s not about finding extra time, it’s about making it a part of your routine,” the girls say in unison.
“What is important is that we remain grounded and generous even when we are successful,” Kashika chimes in even as she says that, “There are many doctors and engineers but Lata Mangeshkar sirf ek hai.” As GT journos nod in agreement, Cherish smiles and the trio ends the conversation with “Jai Duggar, Jai Dogri”!