PURNIMA BISHT | DEHRADUN
The Uttarakhand based music band Pandavaas is receiving widespread appreciation on social media for one of their Garhwali songs they performed during the inauguration of the 38th National Games in Dehradun on Tuesday evening. The song that highlighted the need to preserve Uttarakhand’s culture, land and heritage struck a chord with many attendees and viewers, especially on social media.
The event was witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and several other dignitaries. Many listeners linked the song’s message to the ongoing demand for stricter land laws in Uttarakhand, calling it a bold and courageous move to raise such a sensitive issue on a prestigious national platform. A 26-year-old Dehradun resident Abhinav Singh, who attended the event live, stated that the performance left the audience both shocked and proud. “Nobody expected that song at that time. Pandavaas took a significant step by addressing such a crucial issue in front of key government representatives,” he said.
Another attendee, Sumit Sharma, criticised the government’s inaction on issues like deforestation and land protection while stating that Pandavaas performance brought this matter into the spotlight in Uttarakhand again. “The government here has failed to take concrete steps to protect Uttarakhand’s land and environment. Pandavaas’ performance has once again brought this issue into the spotlight, something that is often overlooked by mainstream media,” he claimed. Following their performance late on Tuesday at Rajiv Gandhi International Sports Stadium, hundreds of people shared video clips of the song across social media, applauding the band for emphasising the urgent need to safeguard Uttarakhand’s cultural and ecological integrity. Speaking about the overwhelming response, Pandavaas director Ishaan Dobhal told The Pioneer that he has received numerous messages of appreciation.
However, he clarified that the band’s intent was not to target the government or any political party. “Our song was meant to educate and influence people about the importance of preserving Uttarakhand’s culture, land, forests and environment,” Dobhal said. He also revealed that the performance was not pre-planned. “The organisers informed us that the next performer was running late and requested us to extend our set. Given the opportunity, we played this song that we often perform at gatherings where we feel the message can reach a large audience. Our intention was to raise awareness and connect with people, not to criticise anyone,” he explained.
Dobhal further emphasised that real change must begin at the grassroots level. “Instead of simply blaming the government or any political party, we believe local people must take responsibility and initiative to protect Uttarakhand. As artists, we were just doing our job. We are glad that the message reached several people, especially youth but there was no political agenda behind it,” he added.
People pointed out that Pandavaas’ performance has reignited discussions on Uttarakhand’s land laws and environmental concerns, bringing them to the forefront of public consciousness. While debates continue, the band’s song has undeniably left an impact, especially on social media, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving Uttarakhand’s heritage for future generations.
