The Ekastha Foundation Is Using Music To Transform The Lives Of Jharkhand's Blind Youth

In 2019, Jharkhand-based electronic music producer Rishabh Lohia, a.k.a. The Mellow Turtle, and his long-time collaborator rapper-producer Sumit Solanki, a.k.a. Tre Ess, came together to produce 'Dil Aziz', a five-minute track written by 14-year-old Subhash Kumar and sung by 15-year-old Dheeraj Kumar Gupta which seamlessly blends Hindustani classical music with electronica, folk, and rock. The track, which was picked up by streaming platform JioSaavn's in-house label Artist Originals, was the result of Taal, an initiative of the Ekastha Foundation.

The Ekastha Foundation, established by Lohia in 2016, runs several social initiatives aimed at uplifting marginalized communities in Jharkhand through a comprehensive approach that integrates music, education, sustainable livelihoods, and environmental conservation. Within the foundation's broader mission, the Taal initiative — a collaboration between Lohia and Solanki — is aimed at spreading the joy of music, fostering creativity, and creating economic opportunities for differently-abled communities. As part of the Taal initiative, Lohia and Solanki bring their musical expertise and passion to personally mentor the visually-impaired students of St. Michael’s School for the Blind in Ranchi, inspiring them to explore their talents and potential.

Taal operates on the belief that music can serve as a powerful catalyst for social change. It provides an emotional outlet and a means of self-expression, helping individuals rediscover their sense of worth and ability. At St. Michael’s, more than 50 students learn guitar, drums, beatboxing, singing, and dance, as well as songwriting and performance techniques. With support from V-Mart, Taal has also established a fully equipped recording studio where these young musicians can practice, record their compositions, and nurture their artistic growth.

Through the Taal initiative, the visually-impaired students of St. Michael’s have begun to see themselves not as defined by their disabilities, but as emerging artists in their own right — singers, songwriters, musicians, and performers capable of influencing and inspiring others through their craft. Some even dream of becoming future rockstars — a testament to how far they have come in overcoming their disabilities and embracing their identities.

By creating a safe space and a supportive environment that nurtures confidence, fosters self-expression, and promotes skill development in Jharkhand's differently-abled youth through the Taal initiative, the Ekastha Foundation continues to prove that music holds the power to reshape lives, redefine possibilities, and help these young individuals find their place in the world.

Watch the music video for 'Dil Aziz' below:

Follow the Ekastha Foundation here.

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