Community-Based Research

At Arna-Jharna, research begins with people. Our work is shaped by the knowledge of artisans, musicians, herders, farmers, and local communities who have lived with this landscape for generations. Rather than studying culture from a distance, we learn through shared conversations, fieldwork, and lived experience.

In the realm of performance, he stands as one of the pioneers of Rajasthani folk music, credited with organizing vast repertoires and introducing desert musicians to audiences across India and beyond. His efforts not only showcased the richness of Rajasthan’s oral traditions but also transformed the lives of its folk artists.

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Research Rooted in Community

Our research approach is simple – we work with the community, not apart from it. Their insights guide how we document craft practices, ecological knowledge, and oral traditions. Every project grows through participation, trust, and long-term relationships built on respect.

What We Explore

Our community-based research focuses on areas that reflect everyday life in western Rajasthan:
  • Material Culture
     Understanding how objects are made, used, and passed down – from brooms and pottery to tools and musical instruments.
  • Ecology & Local Knowledge
     Documenting traditional water systems, indigenous plants, seasonal rhythms, and the ways people adapt to life in the desert.
  • Music, Stories & Oral Traditions
     Working with hereditary musicians, storytellers, and elders to record songs, memories, and community histories.
  • Craft, Labour & Social Life
     Exploring the labour, skills, and social worlds that shape local craftsmanship and cultural practice.
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How We Work

Research at Arna-Jharna is hands-on and collaborative. We learn in the field, record conversations, observe processes, and invite community members to shape the outcomes. The insights gathered often lead to exhibitions, workshops, school programs, and new ways of preserving cultural knowledge.

For Researchers & Institutions

Projects can be tailored around:

  • field documentation
  • object studies
  • oral histories
  • ecological and craft-based learning
  • collaborative workshops with artisans

Our museum, landscape, and community networks offer a unique setting for grounded, meaningful research in western Rajasthan.

Connect With Us

For research inquiries or collaborations, please write to rupayansansthan@gmail.com. We are happy to discuss your interests and help shape a plan that aligns with the museum’s philosophy and the community’s voice.

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