‘Jungle Jugalbandi’: A New Kids Book Explores Indian Classical Music

Indian classical music training is often started early in childhood and now, there’s a new book that can start the journey even sooner. Jungle Jugalbandi is a children’s book by writer Ashmi Shah with musician siblings Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana, from the music organization The Sound Space.

Over at The Sound Space, the Khuranas are often developing modules, workshops, and interactive sessions with music at the center of it all. Jungle Jugalbandi – a book that also comes with a title song performed by artists and children which can be scanned and played via a QR code in the book – is adding another dimension to learning Indian classical music. The story, illustrated by Aayushi Shah, extols the magic that’s found when a jugalbandi comes together, following a koel that wanders through the jungle to add musicians playing different instruments to her troupe.

While there was a concert featuring performances students from The Sound Space called Jugalbandi on April 7th in Mumbai, the book also received a formal unveiling and launch by actor Sonam Kapoor within the same month in the city.

Kamakshi and Vishala Khurana said in a statement at the time of the book launch, “We’ve always aspired to expand the horizons of Indian classical music, which inspired the founding of The Sound Space. Jungle Jugalbandi is our way of showing our love for Indian classical music and how important it is for the cognitive and emotional development of young learners.”

Kapoor said at the event, “I’m truly honored to be part of this wonderful event and book launch. As a parent, I’ve witnessed firsthand the beautiful impact music has had on my child’s growth and development. Vishala and Kamakshi’s dedication to fostering a love for music and cultural understanding among children at The Sound Space is truly commendable.”

The Jungle Jugalbandi book launch event also included a performance of the six-minute title song by students from The Sound Space. A press release for the event adds, “Vishala and Kamakshi Khurana of The Sound Space have created this book to educate children about Hindustani music by introducing them to various Indian instruments and how they sound through an engaging jungle environment. Derived from the Hindi word for ‘entwined twins,’ this showcase celebrates the harmonious fusion of two distinct styles – be it vocal or instrumental.”

Buy ‘Jungle Jugalbandi’ here.