Inside The Fight To Keep Rajasthan’s 800-Year-Old Merasi Traditions & Culture Alive

Deep within Rajasthan's Thar Desert, a community boasts an unbroken musical tradition stretching for more than 800 years — the Merasi. Traditionally referred to as 'Manganiyar', the Merasi have traditionally functioned as oral genealogists, narrators, and musicians for patrons who belong to higher castes. Though their cultural contributions have been invaluable, they have been systemically discriminated against, and excluded from education, health, and political representation. In a remarkable assertion of self-determination, they have reclaimed their identity by adopting the name 'Merasi', which means 'keepers of the inheritance'.

The work of Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan and other collaborating organisations has been instrumental in shattering the cycles of illiteracy and marginalisation that have long afflicted the Merasi people. By offering education and safeguarding their rich musical heritage, these programs empower the Merasi to claim their rightful place in society with pride and dignity.

At the centre of the Merasi's path toward equality and dignity is the collaboration between two not-for-profit entities: Folk Arts Rajasthan (FAR) based in the USA, and Jaisalmer/India-based Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan (LKSS). Initiated in 1996, it remains the only such center offering free education and music conservation programs specially designed for the Merasi population. This alliance is based on the shared vision that education, cultural preservation, and social justice are inseparable objectives that are crucial to the progress of the community.

Founded in 2007, the Merasi School provides a community-based educational system where students are taught English, Hindi, mathematics, science, and fundamental computer skills. The curriculum has been created in direct collaboration with the Merasi themselves so that it speaks to their culture and experiences and meets their specific needs. So far, the school has touched the lives of more than 600 children, instilling a sense of ownership and accountability in students aged between 4 and 16. In an area where government schools tend to fail marginalized groups and private schooling is economically unaffordable, the Merasi School is a shining beacon of hope and change.

Addressing educational and health requirements. Pratham Books has helped to develop a reading culture by providing STEM pocket libraries, sparking curiosity and a love for learning among students. Moreover, Playing For Change, a non-profit organization committed to connecting the world through music, has integrated the Merasi in its international projects, further emphasising the notion that music knows no boundaries across culture and society. Merasi's musical heritage has also been accepted as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.

Despite this, the very tools that define their identity have also served to create stigma since some 'customs' holds that one who plays instruments made of animal skins is 'polluted'. Undeterred by this, the Merasi go on playing their roles as cultural keepers, performing at social and religious ceremonies, and sharing their rich musical heritage with the world. Their strength is shown in their international recognition. Artists such as Swaroop Khan and Mame Khan are recognized internationally and the community as a whole continues to reach for greater social acceptance and parity.

The work of Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan and other collaborating organisations has been instrumental in shattering the cycles of illiteracy and marginalization that have long afflicted the Merasi people. By offering education and safeguarding their rich musical heritage, these programs empower the Merasi to claim their rightful place in society with pride and dignity.

In essence, the journey of the Merasi is not just about preserving music; it's about reclaiming identity, fostering community resilience and challenging societal structures that have long suppressed their voices. Through education and cultural celebration, Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan is lighting the path toward a more equitable and harmonious future for the Merasi and their heritage.

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