Chase the Rhythm: Must Visit Destinations for Music Connoisseurs

From local culinary delights to diverse culture, India gives us one-too-many reasons to explore. But one thing that is integral to every part of our country is its distinct sounds, its music.

We take you through a journey to experience India’s diverse music. So, read on and plan your next road trip to treat the connoisseur in you.

1. The Land of Thumri

Destination: Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

A semi-classical form that beautifully blends music and dance. Thumri uses a greater flexibility to seminal raag it’s based on and can be easily characterized by its sensuality. The form of music flourished in the royal courts of Nawabs with lyrics in Awadhi, a local dialect of Hindi spoken in parts of Uttar Pradesh. Thumri continues to delight music lovers in the city of Nawabs, Lucknow and other neighbouring towns. Performances by renowned artists are regularly organized in the city, which is just a road trip away in your Ford Freestyle.

2. Follow-the-Folk Tunes

Destination: Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Sit back and let Rajasthani folk music in sprawling courtyards of palatial forts transport you to the opulence of this once princely state. Powerful vocals accompanied by traditional instruments set the mood and the ambience to a relaxing undertone. You can experience the mesmerizing music of Rajasthan in most major towns of the state, Jodhpur hosts its most popular music festival – Rajasthan International Folk Festival. The annual gathering not only showcases traditional folk musicians but also talent from around the world. One of the best ways to explore Rajasthan is to drive in your Ford EcoSport.

3. The sound of the Sufis

Destination: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

The picturesque valleys and mountains of Kashmir resonate with the sound of Sufis. The traditional musical form, which has been partly associated with local customs and mysticism in Kashmir, can still be heard at many local gatherings and functions. The Sufi music evolved from a combination of Persian and Indian classical music and was introduced in Kashmir in the 16th century when prominent Sufi saints, fearing persecution by local rulers in northern plains, migrated to the valley. Inspired by poets like Rumi, Hafiz, Bulleh Shah, Amir Khusrow and Khwaja Ghulam Farid, the musical wave will send you in a trance like a state as you get engrossed in the qawwalis. An effortless drive in the Ford Endeavour and it will get you past the curves and bends into this beautiful paradise.

4. Western Beats, by the Beach

Destination: Goa

A fact known to a few, if you really want to listen to some unadulterated Western Classical music, you got to turn that steering wheel towards Goa. Head into a good ol’ church and you’ll know exactly what we are talking about. With violins, clarinets and bass, what used to be prevalent along the west coast over a century ago, the genre can be heard in all its purity which is performed by talented and thoroughly trained musicians. Opt for the Ford Freestyle that will make your drive comfortable as you drive past the Western Ghats, into the beach towns.

5. Best of Both Worlds

Destination: Delhi

To each his own, that can only happen in the hustling and bustling city. The Capital is known for its amalgamation of rhythm, sounds and genres. On any given day, there will be one part of the city that will be playing the kind of music that you would want to listen to. Though you really can’t credit it with being the birthplace of any particular genre but it sure is the hub for all. From attending the Qawwalis at Hazrat Nizamuddin Dargah and Jama Masjid; to throw your head back and forth to Indian Rock music at some of the most happening places in the southern side of the city, the music takes you to different parts of the town. That’s not all. The outskirts of the city are known for hosting some of the biggest international music festivals as well. The classy, comfortable and stylish Ford EcoSport is the best way to make your way through city traffic, at ease. Be it the heart of the city or a few kilometres away from home, the journey will be like the light breeze that you feel when you roll down the windows during a cool morning.

So here you have it, musical travellers! Chalk down your plans and choose your preferred musical location and hit the road on your favourite Ford!