In Hyderabad, the Djembe Circle is more than a musical gathering; it’s a lighthouse of harmony and recovery. The Pioneer gets a chance to interact with the founder as we learn more about how Hyderabadis are currently grooving over these beats for wellness
Aarti Sreenath
In the heart of Hyderabad’s diverse cultural landscape, a new and soulful rhythm is making waves. The deep, resonant beats of the djembe, a traditional African drum, are weaving a tapestry of healing, connection and joy. At the helm of this harmonious movement is Y. Sai Kumar, the passionate founder of the Djembe Circle, who has been dedicated to sharing the transformative power of this ancient instrument.
The djembe player’s musical odyssey began over a decade ago with classical instruments like the keyboard and piano. “I started my musical journey in 2006–07,” he reminisces. “After completing my PhD in musicology from a university in Germany, I delved into Reiki and other natural healing practices. It was then that the djembe found me, or perhaps I found it.” This serendipitous encounter with the djembe, a member of the percussion family alongside tabla and mridangam, inspired Sai Kumar to explore its potential beyond mere musical expression.
Sai Kumar’s sessions are a blend of rhythm and mindfulness, designed to alleviate stress, enhance team-building and provide physical exercise. “The djembe is not just an instrument; it’s a vessel of energy and healing. It’s always played in a group, which creates a communal vibe that’s both therapeutic and exhilarating. The vibrations from the drum connect with our chakras, from the Muladhara to the Crown, facilitating a unique form of chakra healing.”
The inspiration for the Djembe Circle came from a friend, Ayu, an international Djembe player from South Africa. “He introduced me to the magic of drum circles. We would gather and play, immersing ourselves in the powerful rhythms. It was then that I knew I wanted to bring this experience to Hyderabad.” Thus, in January 2024, the Djembe Circle was born, offering a fresh and unique experience to the city’s cultural scene.
Starting this journey in Hyderabad, however, was not without its challenges. “It’s a new concept here and many people don’t quite understand it at first,” he notes. “But once they attend a session, they’re hooked. The energy, the camaraderie—it’s something you have to experience to truly appreciate.”
Despite the initial struggles of introducing this new concept, Sai Kumar remains optimistic. “The biggest challenge is getting people to come and try it. But once they do, the djembe speaks for itself.”
One particularly memorable session drew 150 participants, some travelling from as far as Medak. “The feedback was overwhelming. People left feeling rejuvenated and many returned with their families and friends.”
The benefits of the djembe circle extend beyond the joy of music. Participants often report feelings of calm, enhanced creativity, and improved social interactions. He recounts, “It’s a stress buster. I’ve seen corporate workers, families and even senior citizens find relief and happiness through these sessions.” He recounts a touching story of a woman and her child, who, despite the child being unwell, attended a session. By the end, he was full of energy and completely healed. Moments like these, he says, make it all worth it.
A typical session with the Djembe Circle is an immersive experience—starting with the basics and introducing the three main rhythms of the djembe, Sai explains, “Then we dive into African tribal music, with everyone singing, dancing, and even shouting with joy. It’s not just a musical experience; it’s a celebration.”
Looking ahead, Sai Kumar dreams of making the djembe a staple in Indian culture. “In the 20th century, we saw many instruments gain popularity. I want the djembe to become one of the prominent instruments of the 21st century,” he asserts. His vision extends to schools, colleges and communities across India, spreading the joy and healing power of the djembe. His advice to newcomers is simple yet profound: “Come with an open mind and open heart, and let the rhythm guide you.”
