DRUMMING A PAN-INDIAN AND LOCAL IDENTITY THROUGH MUSIC: THE CASE OF DAMARU SINGAPORE

Abstract

The Indian identity in Singapore is inherently diverse and hence fragmented. These divisions have also been extended to the local Indian music scene. Existing literature and studies provide little information on the existence of Indian folk music in Singapore and how they have contributed to the local Indian music scene. This thesis hence attempts to shed light on the silencing of narratives of Indian folk music by investigating how Damaru Singapore, a local Indian percussion group, propagates the pan-Indian local identity. It contends that Damaru Singapore, more than just a band, can also be perceived as a larger movement towards a well-rounded notion of the Singaporean-Indian identity. This is supported by the first-hand experience and in-depth analysis of Damaru Singapore, its songs, productions and branding stye in comparison to other local bands.