The DHOL

"The dhol is a double-sided barrel drum played mostly as an accompanying instrument in regional music forms. The drum is played using two wooden sticks, usually made out of bamboo and cane wood. The dhol is a drum widely used in the Indian subcontinent. The dhol has been adapted into the music of other regions throughout South Asia and abroad including the Assam Valley, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Sindh, and Punjab. Today, the dhol is most commonly associated with Punjabi music and dance. This drum became the ground roots of modern Bhangra music. From North India, the Dhol spread to other parts of the Indian subcontinent as well." (Wikipedia)

DHOLI TK

My name is Tarak Shah, I like to be known as an American Born Gujarati Desi (ABGD), NOT Confused. My passion for percussion started at an early age. When I was a baby, my mom would yell to stop banging on the pots and pans (my first set of instruments). My Junior High band classes began to refine my talent. No matter what type of band and/or music there was, I wanted to be a part of it! I participated in Marching band, Wind band, Jazz band, Basketball band at UT-Austin, and later, I naturally formed my own band with fellow musicians. But, it was my college years, when I fell in love with desi culture and all Indian events. I was inspired, and decided to strike my hand at the dhol. My drumming experience allowed me to quickly grasp the indian flavor of dhol beats and thus, I became a dholi.

My goal is to get you and your guests engaged, excited, and dancing! My delivery, from an assortment of dhols, drumset, and other percussion instruments to my colorful, traditional indian wardrobe, and my ability to amplify a mobile DJ's beats, has proven great success! I don't just play the dhol, I immerse myself in the music and your family and friends will surround me as they become intoxicated by the beat of my drum. I measure my success by the positive reaction of you and your guests

My experience in dhol, ranges from playing at many special events: engagements, baaraats, weddings, receptions, garbas, sangeets, and birthday parties, as well as private, school, and corporate events. I've worked with many DJs, Dholis, and other vendors in Texas, New Mexico, Arkansas, and many other parts of the US.

This is my passion and true love (with exception for my wife, of course)!