In an exclusive interview, Sreyashi Ghosh delves into the captivating journey of Imnainla Jamir, a trailblazing guitarist hailing from Mokokchung, Nagaland. From humble beginnings to gracing renowned stages like the Hornbill Music Festival and iconic venues in Kolkata, Jamir’s musical odyssey is a testament to perseverance and passion. Join us as we explore her experiences, challenges, and triumphs, shedding light on her role as a beacon for aspiring female musicians in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
SG: How did your musical journey start?
IJ: I was 11 years old when I started playing the guitar, and my brother was my first teacher/mentor who taught me the basics and laid the foundations. I was also lucky to have been exposed to all genres of music in my hometown Mokokchung. The many concerts which I used to frequent regularly had a huge impact on me and my music.
Initially, I started playing small gigs in my hometown and in 2018 got my first big stage outside of my hometown at the Hornbill Music Festival.
SG: What is/are the reason/s for picking up guitar (which is considered as a male instrument) amidst so many musical instruments?
IJ: Firstly, the guitar is one musical instrument that resonates with me more. I am able to freely express my creativity and emotions through the guitar more than I do with other musical instruments.
Secondly, yes, the guitar is an instrument that is mostly considered predominantly a ‘male instrument’. Even for me, it was difficult in the early stages to get a break as a female guitarist, but with more and more gigs happening and commitment to my music, doors started to open for me.
Today, I am happy to say that I have lots of male friends who support my music and want the best for me, and this is very encouraging!
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SG: Tell us about your Hornbill festival experience and how your performance reached the global audience.
IJ: The Hornbill Music Festival is not only a dynamic platform for cultural exchange, community gatherings, and a showcase for local entrepreneurs from the state but also provides a great platform for musicians to showcase their works and talents.
Performing the National Anthem at the Hornbill Festival 2022 was a defining moment for my music career. My life and music career have not been the same ever since that performance, and I am grateful to God and all my well-wishers.
SG: How is the music scenario in Nagaland?
IJ: Music is fundamental to the Nagas. Our history itself roots in our treasures of musical narrations, which permeated every area of our Naga lifestyle.
The music scenario in Nagaland today is blooming. Many talented artists have come into the limelight and are showcasing their works both at national and international platforms.
The hard work of Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), Government of Nagaland, to endorse and uplift musicians and connect them to the larger music market both within the country and abroad is showing great results.
I must also acknowledge MasterPeace (an NGO based in the Netherlands) for choosing me as the Global Ambassador for their CooLeaders program – a climate change initiative.
SG: How has been your experience performing in Kolkata?
IJ: Performing in Kolkata was special. Throughout the country, people know ‘Someplace Else’ as a Mecca for music, and I will remember standing there and sharing my music for a long time to come.
I also thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Alliance Française du Bengale, and I am so grateful to Cultural Monks and MasterPeace Kolkata for arranging everything for me.
SG: What is your message to aspiring young women musicians?
IJ: I will say – let’s all find our superpower and work hard to be super achievers in life, “There is no dream too big and no dreamer too small.”
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