With the arrival of the Sawan season and the gathering of rain clouds, an ancient tradition comes alive. This refers to Kajari—folk music that celebrates the monsoon, love, longing, and life in North India.
Kajari is a centuries-old folklore tradition originating in the eastern state of Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar. This music is performed during the monsoons and reflects a deep connection between people, seasons, and agricultural activities.
The name itself derives from the word kajra (pencil), which symbolizes the dark, rain-filled monsoon clouds. Some also associate this tradition with the goddess Kajali Devi, who is revered in Vindhyachal near Mirzapur.
Kajari was never created for concert halls. Women sang these songs while sowing crops, working in the fields, or gathering in courtyards as the rain nourished the surrounding land.
Although the monsoon brings fresh hope, Kajari often touches upon the theme of viraha—the pain of separation. Many compositions tell stories of women waiting for the return of husbands who have gone to distant cities to earn a living.
Within Kajari, birds such as the pipit, peacock, and crow are not just part of the landscape; they act as messengers, conveying sincere words of lovers over long distances.
For generations, Kajari has resonated in villages every Sawan season. These orally transmitted songs preserve local dialects, traditions, and stories of daily life. Even today, Kajari reminds us that rain is more than just weather; it brings memories, hope, harvest, and stories that continue to unite communities across generations.
DrexxBeats has presented his new single 'Sikhulekile,' which merges Zimbabwean musical motifs with elements of Afro-pop and South African house. This track is dedicated to the themes of love, devotion, and African culture.
The multi-genre producer, DJ, and sound engineer DrexxBeats collaborated with vocalist and songwriter Sineym on 'Sikhulekile.' DrexxBeats noted that the goal was to create an authentic composition reflecting African self-awareness. He emphasized that combining Zimbabwean music traditions and South African Afro-pop allowed for the creation of a track that simultaneously honors cultural roots and celebrates love.
Released on July 15, the single combines touching storytelling with danceable rhythms, making it versatile for celebrations and ceremonies. The title 'Sikhulekile,' which literally translates to 'hear us,' is inspired by the promises couples make to each other during wedding vows. The song explores the joy of choosing love, building a future together, and finding freedom in relationships based on trust, loyalty, and companionship.
Instead of adhering to one style, DrexxBeats introduced the concept of 'tribal house,' blending Zimbabwean percussion and drums with the melody of South African Afro-pop. The result is a track that reflects the rich musical heritage of South Africa while possessing a modern sound. Sineym's vocals bring warmth to the song, lending an emotional nuance to every word that conveys the excitement of new beginnings and lasting love.
Sineym shared her opinion on the track, noting that 'Sikhulekile' is capable of appealing to diverse audiences simultaneously. She added that the song possesses energy that will appeal to fans of Afro-pop and house, yet it carries a message of love and devotion, making it ideal for weddings, anniversaries, and other special moments.
This release also marks an important milestone in DrexxBeats' career following his participation in the AmaGroove Residency program in 2026. This joint program gathered artists, producers, and songwriters from Denmark and various African countries. This experience fostered creative exchange and inspired DrexxBeats to explore new sounds while maintaining a connection to African narratives.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside his Australian counterpart, addressed the Indian diaspora during his three-day visit to Australia on Thursday. Approximately 30,000 individuals gathered in Melbourne to listen to PM Modi speak, marking the largest assembly addressed by any leader in Australia.
During his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land where the event took place, offering respect to their elders, both past, present, and those emerging.
Modi noted that his first visit to Australia occurred in 2014, which followed a 28-year gap since an Indian Prime Minister had visited the country. He mentioned that he had previously stated that this wait would not extend for another 28 years. He further stated that this marked his third visit in the last 12 years, describing it as achieving a 'hat-trick' and reflecting the high level of India-Australia relations.
He specifically thanked Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, calling him a friend of India. Modi recalled Albanese's captivating presence during previous events in Sydney and Melbourne, stating that in Melbourne, the situation felt like 'things have come full circle' as Albanese joined the Indian community there.
The Prime Minister observed that many members of the diaspora live across multiple time zones, yet their daily lives remain connected to India, often maintaining contact via video calls when children return from school in Australia.
Modi commented on Melbourne, noting that while the city showcases all four seasons in one day, the Indian community adds vibrancy through its culture. He pointed out numerous markets in Melbourne and surrounding areas filled with Indian cultural elements, sometimes referred to as 'Little India' or 'Mini India'.
'We Indians love to spread love,' Modi declared, noting that even if homes use Australian milk, the tea prepared from it retains an Indian character. He referenced trends such as the Bhajan Clubbing movement among Gen Z in India and the spiritual activities practiced by the community in Australia.
Looking ahead, Modi emphasized that India in the 21st century is striving to become a developed nation, driven by the aspirations of 140 crore people. He highlighted that India is the fastest-growing economy and aims to become the world's third-largest economy swiftly, guided by the motto: 'Grow more. Achieve more.'
He acknowledged that the diaspora contributes to Australia's growth through their hard work, while simultaneously maintaining a close watch on India's progress. Modi concluded by sharing a philosophical thought, contrasting the old saying, 'One lamp lights another, until thousands are illuminated,' with his modern view: 'One dream gives birth to another, and soon there are thousands of dreams.'
