Mayumi aka Madhu 's journey into the world of Rajasthani folk arts began in 2009 when she watched a movie featuring the mesmerizing dance form of Kalbeliya. Entranced by the movements, colors, and footwork, she decided to pursue it further. This chance encounter changed her life forever, and she began to learn about Rajasthan's culture, art forms, and people.

Learning from the Masters

Madhu's search for gurus led her to Asha Saprea ji, a renowned Kalbeliya artist. For over a decade, Asha ji has been teaching Madhu the intricacies of Kalbeliya, folk singing, and the art of draping the poshak. Mayumi's dedication and passion have earned her the nickname "Rajasthani Madhu" among her fans. During the COVID-19 lockdown, Mayumi watched the show Jodhaa Akbar with subtitles repeatedly, which helped her grasp some Hindi words. Her fluency in Hindi has enabled her to interact with local communities and artists in Rajasthan, deepening her understanding of the art and culture.

Annual Visits to Rajasthan

Since 2015, Madhu has made it a point to visit Rajasthan every year. These visits have been transformative, allowing her to learn from maestros, observe artists, and work on her pronunciation and dance movements. The love and warmth she has received from the people of Rajasthan have touched her heart, and she feels a deep connection to the state and its culture.

Madhu reveals that she is a singer before a dancer. Rajasthan has taught her to find her voice as a musician, and she takes pride in singing folk songs like "Kade Aao Ni Raseela" and "Hariyo Baag." Her Instagram feed showcases her Ghoomar and Kalbeliya performances, but she is also a trained folk singer. As a Rajasthani folk artist in Tokyo, Madhu faces challenges in creating an audience for Kalbeliya and Ghoomar. Despite the occasional small turnout at private shows, her Instagram following and students keep her motivated. She has also come to realize the physical limitations of performing Kalbeliya, which demands immense strength and stamina.

Teaching and Sharing

Madhu teaches Kalbeliya, Ghoomar, and Chari dance forms to her students in Tokyo. She also records videos with them for her Instagram feed, showcasing the beauty of Rajasthani folk arts. Her classes are proof of her dedication to sharing this rich cultural heritage with others. Madhu's next five years are filled with exciting plans. She wants to meet her legends, travel to India more often, and focus on her singing. She aims to research extensively and create a journal documenting the dance forms, songs, lyrics, attire, and traditions of Rajasthan. Her ultimate goal is to promote Rajasthani art forms globally and share the beauty of Indian culture with the world.

A Message for Young Art Enthusiasts

Madhu's message to young art enthusiasts is to observe, learn, and take pride in their roots. She encourages them to be curious about other cultures and traditions, recognizing that there is always more to learn. As she continues to promote Rajasthani art forms globally, her legacy will be a reminder of the power of cultural exchange and the beauty of Indian traditions.