Amidst the serene beauty of the riverside resort in village Chanfi, a unique and unforgettable musical experience awaits music enthusiasts. The Amarrass Records Music Tour, organized by the renowned label Amarrass Records, offers a refreshing departure from crowded music festivals, instead providing an intimate and informal setting where listeners and artists can bond over music and food. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the river Kalsa, this two-day event showcases the mesmerizing sounds of qawwali, Kumaoni music, and delectable local cuisine.
Amarrass Records, founded in 2010 by Ashutosh Sharma and Ankur Malhotra, has gained recognition for its collaborations with renowned Rajasthani folk groups like The Manganiyar Seduction, Lakha Khan, and Padma Shri awardee Sakar Khan, as well as supporting emerging talents such as the Barmer Boys. The label’s curator, Ashutosh Sharma, envisioned the music tour a decade ago when he realized that it becomes challenging for local artists to travel after a certain age. Inspired by the idea of taking audiences to the artists themselves, he aimed to create an exclusive and immersive experience.
The tour was initially planned in the hills of Nainital and Rajasthan, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the launch got delayed. However, the hill tour finally took off, starting in the Nainital region, thanks to the introduction of Sarvjeet Tamta and his qawwali group, Rehmat-e-Nusrat, to the Amarrass Records label. Sarvjeet’s passion for Kumaoni folk music and cuisine became the driving force behind organizing the tour in the Nainital region, nearly 360 kilometers away from the national capital.
The Amarrass Records Music Tour offers a rich tapestry of musical performances. Rehmat-e-Nusrat enthralls audiences with classic poetry and sufi kalams, including renowned compositions like “Man Kunto Maula,” “Aaj Rang Hai,” “Ali Maula,” and “Shahe Marda.” Meanwhile, as HimaliMou, the group presents folk tunes from various regions of Kumaon, along with songs from the Garhwal area of Uttarakhand and the border areas of Nepal.
To enhance the immersive experience, Sarvjeet Tamta showcases his culinary skills by preparing special local delicacies for the visitors. The journey to the Soulitude By The Riverside resort, nestled amidst green hills, involves a kilometer-long trek on rocky terrain from Chanfi bridge, the nearest road-access area. The carefully chosen location serves as a perfect complement to the soulful music, providing a context and enhancing the overall experience.
The Amarrass Records Music Tour aims to keep the sessions intimate and meaningful, fostering interactions between the artists and attendees. It is not merely a “come and go” event but an experience meant to be cherished and remembered. As for the future, Amarrass Records plans to expand the concept of music tours by connecting with folk artists from various parts of the country and providing a stage for as many talents as possible.
If you’re a music enthusiast seeking a unique and enchanting experience, make sure to book your spot at the Amarrass Records Music Tour. Immerse yourself in the melodious tunes, savor the local cuisine, and create lasting memories amidst the natural beauty of the riverside setting. It’s an opportunity to discover the rich musical traditions of qawwali and Kumaoni folk music while forging connections with like-minded individuals who share a passion for music and culture. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey of melodies, nature, and cuisine.