Shared Vision
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Two separate non-profit organizations collaborate internationally with the intention of a thriving and just future for upcoming generations of the Merasi community and their musical culture.
Guiding Values
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This approach recognizes that education, preserving an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and achieving social justice for the continually disadvantaged are mutually dependent goals.
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Folk Arts Rajasthan and Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan value equality and inclusivity, promote dignity and respect, together nurturing capable Merasi youth facing obstinate hierarchical norms. We believe education must always be the brightest light guiding children to their future.
Legacy
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The Jaisalmer Merasi are a community of northwestern Rajasthan (India) who carry a unique musical tradition more than 800 years old. Theirs is an Intangible Cultural Heritage as defined by UNESCO.
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Offering safe access to free education along with classes and activities preserving their culture, the bonds of illiteracy & marginalization are being eradicated.
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These advantages encourage young Merasi to embody positive self-identity and be aware of the routes open to achieve autonomy, fairness, and secure livelihoods.


Musical Narrative
This traditional folk community is considered pollution by virtue of touching the skins of dead animals on their instruments. They are denied fair access to education, healthcare, and political representation.
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Most live in poverty, yet aspire to improve their situation with education. Despite persistent prejudice, they persevere in their roles as oral genealogists, storytellers, and musicians, while being recognized globally as indisputable talent.
Proclaiming their rightful and dignified identity as “Mirasi” the keepers of regional history, they have shed the derogatory label ‘Manganiyar’, proudly embracing ‘Merasi’, as a resolute symbol of self-determination.
Collaborating Cohort


Asha Khan
Merasi School Teacher

Saisirisha Kavuri
AIF Banyan Impact Fellow

Arbaj Khan
Music Merasi Teacher
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Suriya Khan
Merasi School Advisor

Ruksana Khan
Merasi School Teacher

Karen Lukas
Folk Arts Rajasthan Director

Eric Smith
AIF Clinton Fellow

Marina F-Buil
Legacy Partner

Seema Khan
Merasi School Teacher

Sahil Khan
Merasi School Teacher

Nawab Khan
Merasi School Teacher

Josie Ali
FAR Volunteer

Dr. Sarwar Khan
Lok Kala Sagar Sansthan &
Merasi School Director

Stephen Huyler
Advisor

Jimmy Daukas
FAR Board Member

Ashley Benedict
AIF Banyan Impact Fellow

Shahjad Khan
Rickshaw Driver

Jeanne Feeney
FAR Board Member

Irfan Khan
Computer Tutor
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Jules Feeney
Peer Advisor







