Dehradun (india), April 7 -- In the bustling city of Dehradun in India, the traditional music of Naumati-a set of nine traditional Nepali percussion and wind instruments-echoes during auspicious occasions like weddings, Bratabandha [initiation ritual for boys], festivals, and cultural events. The movement to preserve this unique cultural heritage is led mainly by retired Gorkha soldiers who have traded rifles for rhythms.

Sixty-year-old KB Gurung, originally hailing from Baglung district of Nepal, is among the musicians promoting Naumati in Dehradun. Having served for over 30 years in the Naga Regiment of the Indian Army, he now resides in Dehradun and is well-versed in playing several instruments like the Shehanai (a type of oboe), Karn...