Deadline: 15-Oct-2025
Applicants are now invited to submit applications for the Anahad Fellowship Program to cultivate deep expertise in cultural development and production skills while encouraging participants to explore folk music of India.
The Anahad Fellowship is a three-month immersive program designed for young, passionate individuals to engage in cultural research, preserve intangible heritage, and empower folk musicians while developing advanced knowledge and practical skills.
Focus areas and objectives of the fellowship include space to innovate and grow, personal growth and enhanced status, contribution to issues and society, cultural immersion, and skills learning with no concrete idea required. The fellowship encourages participation in production, research (ethnomusicology/musicology), journalism, development (business), and marketing, providing fellows with hands-on experience, exposure to new ideas, and the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to society.
During the program, fellows will engage in immersive cultural research across various Indian states, discovering rare folk musical forms, designing cultural development programs, and empowering musicians through contemporary mediums. The fellowship emphasizes personal and professional development, offering exposure, access to networks, and cross-cultural learning opportunities. Fellows will gain insights into traditional wisdom, community practices, and the unique beauty of folk performances, enhancing both their personal growth and professional credentials.
The program requires extensive fieldwork, including visits to at least 15 ethnic folk groups from states such as Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal, Jharkhand, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand. Fellows will conduct audio-video documentation, lyrical translations, interviews, cultural mapping, and surveys. Each fellow must also pursue a research topic and submit a short dissertation in the form of either a video documentary or a 3,000-word research report.
This residential fellowship in Greater Noida provides twin-sharing rooms, private bathrooms, and covers all travel and accommodation costs for fieldwork. A basic stipend of Rs 10,000 per month is provided, and 100% attendance is mandatory. Fellows are expected to commit approximately 40 hours per week, five days a week, with adjustments during travel.
Eligible applicants should be 21 years or older, have at least a Bachelor’s degree or be enrolled in a Bachelor’s program, demonstrate leadership and critical thinking skills, and be committed to resolving cultural issues. Technical requirements vary depending on the fellowship stream, including skills in production, journalism, business development, or marketing. Applicants must also submit a statement of purpose, résumé, one letter of recommendation, and official transcripts in PDF format.
The fellowship follows a three-round selection process, including application submission, panel interview, and a final interview conducted online by experts from the relevant field. Application closes on 15 October 2025.
For more information, visit Anahad Foundation.