2016 U.S.A. Tour

 In 2016, five Jaisalmer Merasi were granted visas for a musical tour in the United States. They left Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan and arrived in mid-September, excited to perform and illustrate their rich cultural heritage to U.S. audiences.  

Jeanne Feeney meets the Merasi at Newark Airport

In just over five weeks, the Merasi crowded in 32 performances and 16 school events! They played for K-12 students, at colleges, on radio shows, in theaters, and at privately hosted programs. MERASI even found time to shoot a roof-top music video in trendy Brooklyn! 

The Merasi relished sunset over the Manhattan skyline

MERASI exhibit their ancient music at the Boston New England Conservatory © 2016 D. Gillian

 From the Silk Road to a NYC loft event © Sachyn Mital

Traveling the eastern seabord, MERASI explored urban/city streets, national landmarks, host neighborhoods, and nature. They jumped into the Atlantic, played on a Maine island, explored green spaces, toured beautiful churches, saw the White House, and took the Staten Island Ferry.

 Brisk crossing with the light in Washington D.C.

Cross cultural bridges are an easy build with music. Akaram jams on the street after WPFW Public Radio Merasi Live at Five gig. 

The Merasi embrace America's call "Let Freedom Ring" and basic human rights for all 

FAR thanks these Jaisalmer musicians for fearlessly opening their hearts and inviting us to share their truths and the musical legacy they declare "is their blood."

We'd especially like to thank Dr. Sarwar Khan for his unwavering dedication to the Merasi Community. 

No more Manganiyar, we are MERASI

Dr. Sarwar Khan: Nagara master, dholak, and khartals © Sachyn Mital

Ajij Khan: Lead vocal, harmonium, shannai, murli, angloocha, kamaicha, and khartals © Sachyn Mital

Deu Khan: Lead vocals, chipat, khartals, moorchang, and finger cymbals ©Sachyn Mital



Akaram Khan: dholak, khartals, moorchang, bhopang © Sachyn Mital

Salim: khartals, mutki, vocals, finger cymbals © Sachyn Mital