A vibrant drumming community in Bengaluru is preparing to celebrate its second anniversary next month. Founded in 2023 by Krishnakumar Chengeri and Gaurav Gupta, the BangaloreDrums Collective has become a rhythmic retreat for people of all ages.
Each drum circle, lasting about an hour, blends a variety of musical influences. Participants can expect an eclectic mix—from African and Arabic beats to Karnataka’s native tamate rhythms, as well as global genres like hip hop, reggae, and bhangra.
The events are open to everyone, regardless of age or experience. “We welcome anyone from six to eighty-six,” says Chengeri, a yoga therapist. “Many people come in without ever having touched a djembe. So, we start by introducing the instrument, how to hold it properly, and some basic techniques.”
Participants are encouraged to bring their own instruments—whether it’s a djembe, tambourine, bongo, cajón, clapbox, or shaker. “We also provide djembes on rent,” Chengeri adds. “Some people prefer to just listen, dance, or clap along—and that’s completely fine too.”
The idea for the collective took root from Chengeri’s personal experience learning the djembe six years ago. A serendipitous meeting with Gaurav Gupta, a marketing professional, at a drum circle in February 2023 sparked the idea of starting something similar in Bengaluru.
“While cities like Mumbai and Goa already had active drum circles, we weren’t sure how Bengaluru would respond,” Chengeri recalls. While scouting venues, the duo met Madhu Srinivas, a full-time percussionist who soon joined them as an administrator for the group.
Their shared mission was simple yet powerful: to give back to the community while enjoying the rhythm of the drums. Their very first event, held at a center in Yeshwantpur, attracted 50 registrations—far more than they anticipated.
Initially, they organized one event per month. “By 2024, venues started approaching us,” says Chengeri. “Now, we host two to three drum circles every month in locations like Yeshwantpur, HRBR Layout, Kanakapura Road, and RR Nagar.”
As the BangaloreDrums Collective approaches its second birthday, it stands as a testament to the power of music to unite, heal, and inspire—one beat at a time.
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