Established in 1997, the DGAR Jazz Band of the Assam Rifles is a distinguished military musical ensemble known for promoting morale, camaraderie, and cultural unity through music. Upholding the legacy of military bands, the ensemble comprises 22 members, including nine lead singers, under the leadership of Warrant Officer Kalen Basumatary.
Also known as the Pride of Shillong, the band has performed extensively across the Northeast and at prestigious venues in New Delhi, earning appreciation for its dynamic performances. Its digital presence is equally notable, with songs such as Ae Hind ki sena and the Corona song gaining wide recognition.
Over the years, the DGAR Jazz Band has shared the stage with artistes including Lucky Ali and Kavya Limaye, and has represented the Assam Rifles at national events.
On their recent trip to Calcutta, t2 caught up with the band, which continues to serve as a cultural ambassador for the Assam Rifles, spreading messages of unity, patriotism, and harmony through music, for a candid chat. Excerpts.
Tell us about the history of the band...
The Assam Rifles Jazz Band was formed in 1997 under the guidance and encouragement of our then DG saab. What started as a small group of just four members has today grown into a 22-member band. Over the years, whenever members retired, new talent was inducted from different units to carry the legacy forward. As soldier-musicians, we feel immense pride in representing Assam Rifles through both service and music.
The main traditional attire worn by the female band members comprises a Mizo shawl, necklace, white shirt, and black trousers.
How does it feel to be part of a military band?
It is a matter of great honour and pride for us. Wearing the uniform and representing the military through music is a unique responsibility. The love, appreciation, and admiration we receive from people across the country motivate us to keep giving our best. It feels special to connect with people not only as soldiers, but also as musicians.
How do you juggle the two important roles of manning the border and singing?
Historically, music and soldiers have always gone hand in hand. In the Assam Rifles, both roles complement each other — one protects the nation’s borders, while the other boosts morale and builds connections with people. Whether with a weapon or an instrument, our duty is service to the nation.
Most memorable performances so far?
Every performance has been special in its own way, but some memories will always stay close to our hearts. Performing in Calcutta, at Unity Utsav for consecutive years, in Dehradun, and at the Governor’s House in Meghalaya were unforgettable experiences. Our performance at the Hornbill Festival was also extremely memorable because of the incredible response from the audience.
Sharing the stage with artistes like Lucky Ali and Kavya Limaye was another proud moment for us. Performing alongside such renowned musicians made us feel recognised and motivated as artistes.
Music builds bridges where words sometimes fall short. Through the soldier-musicians of Assam Rifles, we connect hearts, cultures, and communities — reinforcing unity, pride, and a shared sense of belonging,” said Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General, Assam Rifles.
You gave a soul-touching tribute to Zubeen Garg?
Our tribute to Zubeen Garg came straight from the heart. The video received nearly six lakh views within 48 hours, and the overwhelming love from people deeply touched us. During such an emotional time, the way audiences connected with our performance was truly moving. We are grateful that our tribute was received with so much warmth and affection.
How does the discipline inherent in the military influence music?
The discipline we learn during our training becomes a part of our personality, and naturally, it reflects in our music as well. Teamwork, punctuality, consistency, and dedication are essential both in military life and in music. We also take care of our voices and health by maintaining strict routines, especially before performances.
How does one get selected for the band?
Whenever vacancies arise due to retirement, auditions are conducted across all 46 Assam Rifles units. Messages are circulated to every unit, and talented personnel are invited to audition. The best musicians are then selected to become part of the Assam Rifles Jazz Band. It is a proud opportunity for any soldier with musical talent.
Are you open to collaborations with any singer?
Absolutely. We would love to collaborate with artistes such as Arijit Singh, Bryan Adams, Sukhwinder Singh, Shilpa Rao, Papon, and Sonu Nigam.
The traditional attire of Northeast tribes goes beyond visual appeal, symbolising the region’s unity in diversity and the unique cultural identity of each tribe. Through these costumes, Assam Rifles conveys a powerful message — many identities, one mission, one nation.
Who are the singers you idolise and learn from?
Our inspirations include legends like Kishore Kumar, KK, Asha Bhosle, and Lata Mangeshkar. Zubeen Garg has also always been a major inspiration for us.
Could you name a few songs that are always a hit?
Whenever we perform songs like Senorita, Pal pal dil ke paas, Jab koi baat, and Slow motion angreza, the audience response is always fantastic. These songs instantly connect with people and create great energy during our performances.
How many languages can you sing in?
We perform in a wide variety of languages and dialects from across the Northeast and the rest of the country, including Monpa, Nyishi, Adi, Assamese, Bodo, Ao, Angami, Chokri, Konyak, Manipuri, Kuki, Mizo, Nepali, Khasi, Punjabi, Marathi, Haryanvi, Bhojpuri, Hindi, and English. We also perform songs in Spanish and Italian. Representing different cultures through music is something we truly enjoy and take pride in.
Where do you see yourselves in a few years?
We hope to perform on bigger national platforms in the coming years, especially in Mumbai and on television. Our dream is to take the music and culture of the Northeast to audiences across the country and make people proud of the talent within Assam Rifles.
Your costumes are very fascinating...
Our costumes represent much more than appearance. The traditional attire of different Northeast tribes reflects the spirit of unity in diversity. Every outfit carries its own cultural identity, but together they send one strong message — many identities, one mission, one nation. Through our costumes, we proudly showcase the rich traditions and heritage of the Northeast.
Who do you attribute your success to?
We owe much of our journey to the encouragement and vision of our present DG saab, Gen Vikas Lakhera, who believed in us and created this platform for soldier-musicians. We also credit our success to teamwork, dedication, and constant practice.
Balancing military duties with music is not easy, and many times we spend extra hours after work perfecting songs and rehearsing together. Most importantly, the support of our families has been invaluable throughout this journey.
You belong to the Army, yet you pursue your passion for music. What message would you like to give in order to motivate people?
Music is a very powerful medium that connects hearts and brings people together. Our message would be simple — follow your passion, stay disciplined, and never stop believing in your talent. Being a soldier does not mean we cannot pursue music or express ourselves creatively.
We are grateful to our DG saab for believing in us and giving us this platform. His encouragement constantly motivates us to improve and dream bigger. If you truly have talent and dedication, you should never hesitate to showcase it.