The surreal experience of weaving intricate drum beats through our racing heartbeats gives us an adrenaline rush each time we perform. The Dhol is a part of our life. Whether we are at a restaurant in Georgetown or behind the wheel on the freeway, our fingers somehow find a surface to tap away at; the beat never dies.
Dholi Mastana
At the age of 12, Dave Gupta was well on his way in his percussion career; in fact, he was the lead percussionist in his middle school band class. However, the weak snare drums just didn't cut it. A few years later, he came across the Dhol in a cultural show performance. At his high school International Night, Nana the Dholi, a performer and fellow classmate, captured the audience with powerful Dhol beats that echoed through the auditorium. As Nana the Dholi lit up the stage with a live Dhol performance, Dave was inspired and instantly fell in love with the beats and rhythm. Ever since, he has been a committed student, learning the beats, the history and the art of Dhol from his teacher, Teji. His passion for the instrument and lively nature brought about the name Dholi Mastana, which literally translates into "the joyful drummer". The latest venue for Dhol is fusion, the mixing of Dhol with non-traditional music types, such as hip-hop or Spanish reggaeton.
Dave's numerous performances include the Indian Embassy, the Kennedy Center, the Warner Theater in DC, along side singers, Juggy D and Manak E, aboard the USNS naval ship, and at FUR and Avenue Nightclub.
Dave is currently a student at the University of Virginia pursuing a degree in Engineering. He is also a dancer and plays Dhol for his collegiate Bhangra team, UVA di Shaan, which competes and performs regularly.
