Balaji Bhatt Rajasthani & Punjabi Kalakar Group

Our group is based out of Nehru Nagar, and we've been doing this for quite a while. We focus on Rajasthani and Punjabi folk performances, which means our lives are usually full of music and colorful costumes. It’s a tight-knit group of artists here at Balaji Bhatt. We aren't some corporate agency; we are the people who actually show up and perform. Our space in Nehru Nagar is mostly used for practicing and keeping our instruments and gear in good shape. It gets quite loud when everyone is here rehearsing, but the neighbors seem to be used to it by now. We spend a lot of time traveling to different venues, but this is our home base. It’s a simple setup. We don't have fancy desks or a big reception area. Most of our business happens through phone calls and old-fashioned meetings. When people want traditional music or dancers, they find us here. We take pride in the cultural stuff we do, but we talk about it in a very practical way. It’s hard work, especially during the wedding season when we are out almost every night. We make sure everyone knows their parts and the outfits are ready. It’s just us doing what we know how to do. Nehru Nagar is a good spot for us because it’s central enough to get anywhere quickly. We’re just a group of artists trying to keep the traditions going.