Malaysian traditional drummers revive Indian folk music

A growing interest in Tamil history and culture among the younger generation of Malaysian Indians means the beat of the urumee drums is now being increasingly heard across the country. — Photos: AFP

Malaysian musicians bang drums on a stage shrouded in smoke, singing in Tamil, as dancers wearing shimmering gold outfits adorned with peacock feathers gyrate to the pounding rhythm.

The Chinna Rasa Urumee Melam ensemble is performing a traditional form of folk music brought to Malaysia generations ago by Indian labourers but which is now enjoying a revival among the country’s South Asian community.