Nagada Drum & Percussion Workshops

95% of participants say this initially! Our teaching structure uses imitation and repetition—you don't need prior rhythm sense. We break patterns into simple components, practice slowly, gradually speed up. Even rhythmically-challenged participants create ensemble grooves by end of session through guided practice. Worst case scenario: you'll have fun trying (laughter is half the point, mistakes are bonding experiences!). Nobody judges—everyone's focused on their own learning.

Nagada is moderately demanding (expect arm workout, slight muscle soreness next day—similar to gym session). If you have arm/shoulder issues, let us know—we adjust (play shorter bursts, focus on technique over power). Dholak is gentle (hand slapping, not strenuous). Khartal is coordination-challenge not strength. Morchang is effortless. Manjira is very easy. We adjust intensity based on group age/fitness—elders/people with limitations focus on gentler instruments, younger/fitter participants tackle Nagada more. Everyone participates comfortably.

Comfortable clothes allowing free movement (avoid tight pants hindering cross-legged floor sitting). No special attire required—come as you are. Many participants wear traditional Indian clothes for photos (salwar kameez, kurta)—optional, not expected, but fun if interested! Remove jewelry that might hit drums (rings, dangly bracelets). Closed-toe shoes recommended for courtyard (sandals fine, just protecting feet from drum stick accidental drops!). Layers good—Pushkar weather varies.

Ages 8+: Welcome in all group workshops (we have smaller drums for kids, adjust teaching pace). Ages 5-7: Can join with parent participating alongside them (parent-child bonding experience). Kids this age tire quickly—we give them breaks, let them observe when needed. Under 5: Generally too young (attention span issue 60+ mins, instruments intimidating size). Family workshops: Can be arranged (multigenerational groups 5-70 years old—beautiful family bonding through music!). Kids often LOVE this—physical, loud, socially acceptable way to make noise!

NO! All instruments provided—you need literally nothing except yourself and curiosity. We have 8+ Nagadas, 15+ Dholaks, dozens of Khartal/Morchang/Manjira sets. If you fall in love and want to buy Dholak/Khartal/Morchang afterward, we can arrange purchase at local Pushkar market (₹2,000-6,000 depending on instrument/quality). Nagada not practical to buy (huge—3 feet diameter, expensive ₹15,000-30,000, difficult to transport internationally, requires special shipping). Most participants content with videos/memories without purchasing.

YES! Encouraged! We want you to document this. We'll even help you get great action shots (someone always plays photographer volunteer). We also record final ensemble performance professionally and send you video via WhatsApp/email within 24 hours. Many participants create Instagram Reels/TikToks during workshop—totally fine, tag us @pushkarmusicretreat so we can share! The visual/audio documentation is treasure—participants watch videos for years, show friends/family, relive the joy.

We move to covered indoor space at school (same venue, just under roof shelter). Pushkar gets occasional rain during monsoon (July-September), but rarely continuous—usually brief showers. Monsoon sessions have extra charm: playing drums while rain pours outside, smell of wet earth, cooler temperature, dramatic atmosphere. We've done workshops in light rain (courtyard partially covered)—adds adventure! If heavy storm, we simply reschedule (very rare, happens maybe 2-3 times per year).

BOTH—you choose your experience! We respect that some participants seek spiritual connection: Nagada vibrations as meditation, drum playing as moving prayer, sacred temple setting for transcendent experience, rhythmic trance states, chakra alignment through sound vibration. Others just want fun cultural activity: learning exotic instruments, team bonding, entertaining experience, cool photos, impressive skill to share. No religious content imposed—we create space for whatever experience each person seeks. The teacher explains cultural/spiritual significance (temple traditions, sacred uses) but never pushes beliefs. Secular tourists and devout spiritual seekers both leave satisfied.

Oct-March (Peak Season): Pleasant weather (15-28°C), Pushkar's vibrant cultural scene, possible to attend real temple festivals if timing aligns. Downside: Accommodation 30-50% more expensive, book 8-12 weeks ahead. July-Sep (Monsoon): Occasional rain but not constant, Pushkar lush and green, fewer tourists (more intimate experience), accommodation cheaper. Downside: Humidity, rare completely-rained-out day. April-June (Hot): Very hot (32-42°C), fewest tourists, accommodation cheapest. Downside: Physically draining playing drums in high heat (we schedule morning sessions, provide lots of water). Our Recommendation: Oct-Nov or Feb-March (ideal weather, post/pre-peak pricing, vibrant but not overcrowded).

Step 1: WhatsApp +91 99286 58520 or email krishnamusicschoolpushkar@gmail.com with: preferred dates, group size, which format interested in (60-min intro / 90-min ensemble / 3-day module / private). Step 2: We confirm availability, finalize exact timing (morning/afternoon/evening), answer any questions. Step 3: Small advance payment (₹2,000-5,000 depending on group size) holds booking via bank transfer/PayPal/UPI. Step 4: Remaining balance paid on arrival (cash/UPI accepted). Step 5: We send venue directions, what to bring (basically nothing!), meeting details. Cancellation: 7+ days advance notice: full refund. 3-6 days: 50% refund. Less than 3 days: no refund (but can reschedule if we have availability).