Dehradun’s Heartbeat: Finding Community and Calm through Drum Circles
- Shreya Guleria
- Jun 21
- 3 min read
Dehradun — the gateway to the Himalayas — is known for its cool climate, laid-back charm, and a deep sense of reflection. Whether it’s the soft bustle of Paltan Bazaar or the silent serenity of the nearby hills, there’s a rhythm in this city — and now, it’s getting louder, more communal, and more joyful through drum circles.
With its blend of students, seekers, soldiers, and storytellers, Dehradun is slowly becoming a rhythmic sanctuary for people looking to breathe, connect, and play.
A City in Flow
Life in Dehradun moves differently. It’s not rushed. It allows room for introspection — and this makes the city naturally receptive to something like a drum circle, where being present is all that’s asked.
Drum circles are gaining momentum here by:
Offering a non-verbal space for expression and emotional release
Creating community in a city with transient populations (students, travellers, retirees)
Supporting mental health in a post-pandemic world
Celebrating life, rhythm, and togetherness — without performance pressure
“You don’t need to know music. You just need to show up. That’s the kind of energy this city loves.”— Artist, Rajpur Road
Student City, Creative Soul
With prominent schools and universities like Doon University, Welham, and Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun has a strong student presence. And students are often the first to embrace mindful, playful movements.
Drum circles are finding space in:
Stress-relief and mindfulness events during exam season
Music clubs and eco-conscious campus festivals
Theatre rehearsals and movement workshops
Community cafés in places like Chakrata Road and Hathibarkala
“At first, we were shy. Ten minutes later, we couldn’t stop laughing. It’s like therapy disguised as fun.”— Student, Graphic Era University
A Spiritual and Healing Hotspot
Close to Rishikesh and nestled amidst yoga retreats and wellness centers, Dehradun attracts seekers. It’s a city that already believes in healing — and rhythm is becoming part of that journey.
Drum circles are being used for:
Sound healing sessions in yoga retreats and nature resorts
Therapy groups working with trauma and anxiety
Holistic wellness weekends for corporate and family groups
Community mental health workshops in public gardens
“We’ve seen people who haven’t spoken in weeks start smiling and tapping. Rhythm opens what words cannot.”— Counsellor, Sahastradhara
Drum Circles at Work
While Dehradun is not a typical corporate hub, its institutions — from the Indian Military Academy to state government offices and education boards — are exploring drum circles for morale, communication, and team spirit.
Popular formats include:
Staff wellness sessions
Ice-breakers during retreats and trainings
Youth camps and leadership programs
Drumming + storytelling formats in teacher training events
“Even the most reserved people started joining in. It doesn’t just bond a team — it shifts energy.”— Program lead, state training academy
📍Where to Find Drum Circles in Dehradun:
FRI lawns and Buddha Temple gardens – open-air sunset circles
Retreat centres near Maldevta, Rajpur and Mussoorie Road – wellness drumming
Student cafés in Karanpur, EC Road and Balliwala – acoustic jam nights
Schools, training institutes and teacher circles – youth & community engagement
NGOs and mental health collectives – rhythm therapy sessions
Dehradun doesn’t need loudness — it needs connection, calm, and creativity. And that’s exactly what drum circles are bringing. One beat at a time, people are stepping out of their own heads, and into a rhythm that feels ancient, honest, and shared.
In this city between the mountains and the mind, the drum is becoming a bridge — between silence and sound, strangers and stories.
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