Session 50 summary
Which tribe do you belong to and what is the role of music in your tribe?
Takar belongs to the Michri tribe which is one of the main tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, he hails from the Abotani, mostly found near Itanagar; Tani clan Michri tribe. A lot of things are oral and it creates a different realm which they enter while chanting during ceremonies. A lot of things are not documented before but now they are being done. In his culture most things are oral. Now a lot of things are fused, music has been interjected from outside in his community. Earlier people were chanting and circling around nature. There are no tribal instruments to his knowledge.
Could you tell more about your song and rediscover yourself?
There was a time when Takar went to a remote village, where there was no phone network. There he was asked to speak in his personal dialect but it was very difficult and he felt embarrassed. He felt like he was there but not there and it kept bothering him. He had initially journaled it as ‘Acquired Story’ which seemed direct so he made it ‘A quiet Story’. As a singer, it is easier for him to put words in melodies hence his songs reflect his journey of not giving up and moving forward.
What made you want to reconnect to your roots?
Firstly, it was the feeling of whether he belonged there or not. Secondly, he was surrounded with people who were open about their culture, which influenced him. ‘A Quiet Story’ made Takar realize that it is important to know where he comes from. He says that he is fortunate to have music in his life to contribute in trying to bring the best of both sides.
Which instrument really captures the uniqueness of the melody of your community?
Guitar, because Takar is a natural player at it and it is the most commonly used instrument in folk music. Now people want something upbeat for dancing which is quite difficult.
How is your journey of bringing music together? What are the major challenges when merging the folk with the contemporary in songs?
A lot of people from Takar’s community are not interested in recording in the studios. His earlier songs were influenced by the Assamese song. People didn’t find his songs attractive but the younger generation likes them.
Why do you think there is a gap of writing music in your dialect?
People have grown up listening to mainstream Bollywood song, so they didn’t think much about their own dialect. Takar feels that if he learns and preserves his dialect he would be able to influence some people which would be great.
What does home mean to you and how?
For Takar, home means peace, calmness, everything being under control, feeling of satisfaction, joy, security and love.
What would your advice be?
His advice to others is, “If you have started on this journey, its good, you need to move on. Whatever you do would be a contribution to your community and culture. Do it because you love it not just for the sake of it. Enjoy your culture and appreciate for what it is.”
Where do you think our tribal music have space?
He feels that the Northeast is left out somewhat. As an artist people should not give up the journey, instead find ways to spread their culture and music. More needs to be done to be recognized by the people who are unaware of it.
About the Speaker
Takar Nabam
Takar Nabam is an Indian singer-songwriter who infuses mellow alt-rock references and hints of Himalayan folk music influences from North East India to create a soulful concoction of liberating grooves, jazzy riffs and dreamy vocals. From India’s Arunachal Pradesh region bordering Tibet, Takar’s music embodies the truth that it’s the journey that matters, and not where it should eventually lead to. Takar grew up listening to a lot of 90s pop, Rock, Metal and Alternative Rock. The guitar became his first love, for which he won several awards during his school years. Gaining exposure in the Delhi Music scene, his peak moment was opening for Metallica in 2011 at Bengaluru, India. Takar studied music formally, introducing himself to Composition and Arranging, playing in jazz ensembles, and learning a great deal about Jazz, World Music and RnB, which informed the next phase of his musical journey.
