Mysuru in Rhythm: Where Royal Heritage Meets Drum Circle
- Shreya Guleria
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Mysuru — the cultural capital of Karnataka — is known for its palaces, yoga, classical arts, and calm tempo. It's a city that moves with grace, with an old soul but an open heart.
And in recent years, a new rhythm has begun to echo through its gardens, yoga retreats, and university campuses — the rhythm of drum circles.
Here, the drum is not just an instrument — it's a bridge between Mysuru’s rich past and its evolving, expressive future.
A City That Reveres Rhythm
In Mysuru, rhythm is sacred. The city is home to classical music traditions, Carnatic percussionists, and some of India’s oldest cultural institutions. Drum circles are tapping into this love for rhythm — not as a replacement for tradition, but as an extension of it.
Why Mysuru is embracing drum circles:
The city has a deep-rooted respect for sound and vibration
It attracts seekers, yogis, and creatives looking for deeper connection
Its residents value community, calm, and spiritual wellness
Drum circles offer a fun, collective, and healing outlet in a low-pressure way
“This is a city that listens before it reacts. And that’s exactly what happens in a drum circle too.”— Music educator, Lakshmipuram

Yoga Capital’s Next Evolution
Mysuru is globally known as the birthplace of modern Ashtanga Yoga. It attracts students and teachers from around the world, many of whom are now integrating drumming as part of mindfulness, breathwork, and movement.
You’ll find drum circles in:
Yoga shalas and weekend retreats around Gokulam and VV Mohalla
Sound healing workshops combining singing bowls, djembes, and chants
Outdoor sessions near Kukkarahalli Lake and Chamundi Hills
Wellness events hosted at ashrams and eco-resorts
“We breathe in sync. We move in sync. And then, we drum in sync. That’s Mysuru energy.”— Yoga facilitator, Gokulam
Heritage Meets Youth
With prestigious institutions like Mysore University, SJCE, and CFTRI, the city also has a thriving student community that is increasingly exploring alternative modes of expression, collaboration, and stress relief.
Drum circles are popular at:
Inter-college festivals and cultural events
Theatre and performing arts workshops
Music clubs promoting Indian and global rhythms
Student-led wellness collectives
“We don’t just study here — we’re creating culture. Drum circles are helping us feel more connected.”— Student, Manasagangotri
Calm Culture, Conscious Living
Mysuru is not just aesthetically beautiful — it’s emotionally grounded. The slower pace of life allows people to reflect, connect, and experiment with well-being practices, making drumming a natural fit for both individuals and organizations.
Drum circles are now used in:
Therapy sessions for teens, women, and trauma survivors
NGO-led programs for underprivileged children and differently-abled groups
Heritage festivals and community events
Team bonding sessions for educators and hospital staff
“Mysuru isn’t noisy, but it isn’t quiet either. It’s balanced — and the drum fits into that perfectly.”— Local psychologist, Saraswathipuram
📍Where to Find Drum Circles in Mysuru:
Gokulam yoga hubs and Mandala studios – global yogi meet-ups
University campuses in Manasagangotri and Srirampura – youth jams
Parks and lakefronts like Kukkarahalli and Karanji – open drumming sessions
Cultural festivals like Dasara and Rangayana events – rhythm showcases
Retreats near Nanjangud and Chamundi foothills – wellness drumming

Mysuru is not just a city — it's a vibe. A place that honours its roots while inviting new expressions. In this rhythm-friendly atmosphere, drum circles are reviving the collective joy of coming together — without competition, without expectations.
In Mysuru, the drum doesn’t disrupt the calm. It deepens it.
Because when a city already knows how to breathe… it learns to beat in harmony, effortlessly.
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