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Get to know us
Welcome to the official website — a dedicated platform for exploring the rich and complex intersections of ethnomusicology, cultural history, oral traditions, folklore, and post-colonial thought.
Grounded in the cultural tapestry of South Asia, particularly Pakistan, this space brings to light the often-overlooked voices of marginalized communities — including the Mirasis, Rubabis, and other historically stigmatized caste groups — whose artistic and spiritual legacies have endured despite centuries of social exclusion.
Through critical inquiry and community-centered storytelling, we delve into how caste hierarchies, colonial disruptions, and modern nation-state politics have shaped, silenced, and at times, reanimated the cultural expressions of these communities. Our goal is to document, preserve, and amplify these living traditions — from devotional music and folk poetry to intergenerational oral histories — as acts of cultural resistance and reclamation.
Join us in this journey to celebrate the resilience of forgotten histories, to challenge dominant narratives, and to ensure that these invaluable voices continue to echo through time.
We are committed to cataloguing, preserving, and promoting the diverse folk arts, heritage, and collective memory of Pakistan — with a focus on inclusive cultural and historical preservation.
About me
My research interests lie at the crossroads of ethnomusicology, cultural history, and post-colonial studies, with a focus on the musical and literary traditions of South Asia, particularly in Pakistan. He is deeply intrigued by how marginalized communities, such as the Mirasis and Rubabis, have preserved and adapted their musical practices amidst sociopolitical transformations and cultural shifts. His work explores the intersections of music, caste, identity, and religion, emphasizing the role of these subaltern groups in shaping South Asia’s cultural fabric. By investigating both devotional and secular musical traditions, such as Sufi poetry and folk narratives, his research examines how these practices resist state-imposed cultural policies and navigate the dynamics of nationalism, modernity, and digital transformation.
I am particularly interested in how cultural memory and oral traditions have evolved within rural, semi-urban, and diasporic contexts. Drawing on archival material, ethnographic fieldwork, and digital media analysis, he delves into the nuanced interplay between historical legacies and contemporary practices. His research also critically engages with themes of cultural resilience and decolonization, highlighting the voices and contributions of often-overlooked communities. Through his scholarly work, Arslan aims to bridge the gap between academic discourse and cultural advocacy, fostering a deeper understanding of the rich and diverse musical heritage of South Asia.
Rai Arslan
Current Projects
Explore the exciting projects I am currently working on.
Research Associate
Contributed to archiving and documentation across various cultural and research projects.
Project Beta
Collaborative efforts to enhance community engagement and outreach.
Project Gamma
Analyzed representations of musicians and artists in Pakistani print media.
Project Oral History
Collected oral histories and migration narratives of artists and marginalized castes in Pakistan.
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Work Experience
A summary of my past projects, showcasing my skills and contributions.
Projects and roles.
Experience
Professional Background
Various Companies
2018 - Present
Engaged in diverse projects, enhancing my skills through practical experiences.
Internship Experience
Internship Roles
2020 - 2021
Gained valuable insights and hands-on experience in my field of interest.
Our vision
Our vision is to create a platform that amplifies the voices of South Asia’s marginalized communities, fostering an inclusive understanding of their cultural and musical heritage. We strive to bridge the gap between academic research and public discourse, shedding light on the intricate histories, oral traditions, and artistic expressions of these communities. By preserving and celebrating their narratives, we aim to contribute to a broader appreciation of cultural diversity and resilience. Through this endeavor, we hope to inspire meaningful conversations and initiatives that recognize the significance of safeguarding these traditions for future generations, enriching the global tapestry of shared human heritage.
Our mission
Our mission is to explore, document, and promote the rich cultural and musical traditions of South Asia, with a special focus on the stories of marginalized communities. We are committed to conducting interdisciplinary research that uncovers the intricate interplay between history, sound, and identity, while challenging narratives that overlook these vibrant heritages. By creating a platform for knowledge-sharing and dialogue, we aim to foster awareness, appreciation, and preservation of these traditions. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, we strive to ensure that these invaluable cultural legacies continue to inspire and thrive in the contemporary world.
Our team
Our strength lies in our individuality. Set up by Esther Bryce, the team strives to bring in the best talent in various fields, from architecture to interior design and sales.
Mujahid Shah
KPK, Pakistan-Afghanistan border, and surrounding areas.
Musab Bajva
Punjab
Jaden Smith
Architect
Fatima Batool
Caste and class in punjab