LEH: Music is an integral part of Ladakh’s culture, and for decades, generations of Ladakhis have associated with their traditional music, an unparalleled sense of pride. The Indus Dispatch reached out to Dorjey Angchok, one of the prominent faces in the field of Ladakhi traditional music, who has kept the flag of Surna music flying high over the last 35 years.
One of the best skilled Surna players in the union territory, Dorjey Angchok is striving to promote and pass on his skills and art of playing the ethnic rich instrument to the young generation. Angchok’s knowledge and skills make him a valuable asset to the Ladakhi society.
He has represented Ladakh at various platforms, including the Festival of Tribal Dance. He conducts classes to pass on values and skills to the younger generation and has more than 100 active student across the cold desert.
Since music is an integral part of cultural activities, including religion and festivals in Ladakh, his contribution to promoting and conserving Ladakhi culture is praiseworthy. He is a huge asset to the dying art of Surna musicians and it was in honour of his efforts, he was awarded the State award for the year 2020 in Music category.
In this exclusive conversation, Angchok plays for the Indus Dispatch viewers the traditional tunes of Ladakh.
