Rajesh Dhalta: Keeping Sirmaur’s Folk Music Alive
When Rajesh Dhalta takes the stage, his soulful voice has a way of pulling people in, leaving audiences asking for more. A celebrated artist from Sirmaur district, Rajesh has spent the past five years collecting and preserving traditional folk songs, determined to keep the region’s rich cultural heritage alive.
Recognized by All India Radio and Doordarshan Shimla, Rajesh has performed at international, national, and local fairs across Himachal Pradesh, showcasing the essence of Sirmaur’s traditions. Even at a young age, he has carried the district’s music to stages in different states, proving himself as a versatile performer in classical singing, ghazals, bhajans, and folk melodies.
Music runs deep in his family. His father, Sohan Lal Dhalta, is a renowned flute and shehnai player, while his uncle, Vidyadat Dhalta, is a multi-talented artist. Together, they often perform duets, blending generations of artistry. Rajesh himself is skilled in playing the harmonium, tabla, dholak, and guitar, adding depth to his performances.
From his early school days, Rajesh’s passion for music shone through—winning competitions, filling his home with awards, and later pursuing higher studies in music under the guidance of Professor Dr. Savita Sehgal. With a master’s degree from Himachal Pradesh University, he now dreams of becoming a professor and is working toward a PhD in music.
His father’s cultural group, Dhalta Kala Manch, and their family-run Pahari band are in high demand across Sirmaur and neighboring districts. For Rajesh, every performance is more than just music—it’s a way of carrying forward the soul of his land, ensuring that Sirmaur’s folk traditions continue to resonate for generations to come.
