How Marfa Dance and Music, with its Arab-African Roots, Evolved in Hyderabad

India’s rich tapestry of dance forms reflects a deep history of cultural exchange and adaptation. While many classical dances like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi are rooted in ancient traditions, their modern incarnations often result from a blend of indigenous practices and external influences. For instance, Bharatanatyam, originally a temple dance from Tamil Nadu, was revitalised in the 20th century and has since gained global recognition, with training centres established in countries like the United States, Europe, and Singapore. Similarly, Kathak, with its origins in northern India, has been influenced by Persian and Mughal cultures, evident in its intricate footwork and expressive gestures. These evolutions underscore how Indian dance forms have continually absorbed and integrated diverse cultural elements, fostering a dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. 

One compelling example of this cultural fusion is the 'Marfa' music and dance tradition of Hyderabad. Introduced in the 18th century by the Siddi community—people of East African descent—Marfa blends Afro-Arab musical elements from Hadhramawt in Yemen with local Indian traditions. Characterised by high-tempo rhythms played on instruments like the daff, dhol, and steel pots, Marfa is a vibrant expression of Hyderabad’s multicultural heritage. Its performances, often seen at weddings and festive occasions, exemplify how global influences have been seamlessly woven into the fabric of Indian cultural practices, creating unique art forms that resonate both locally and beyond. 

Marfa: The Afro-Arab Rhythms That Echo Through Hyderabad

Marfa is a vibrant musical and dance tradition that originated from the Hadhramaut region of Yemen and was introduced to Hyderabad in the 18th century by the Siddi and Chaush communities. These groups, comprising individuals of East African and Yemeni descent, served in the Nizam’s army and brought with them their rich cultural practices, including Marfa music. The Asaf Jahi Nizams, who ruled Hyderabad, patronised Marfa performances during official celebrations and ceremonies, reflecting their claimed Arab ancestry and fostering a connection to their cultural roots. Characterised by high-tempo rhythms, the art form ensembles employ instruments such as the Marfa drum, daff, dhol, steel pots, and wooden strips called thapi to create an energetic soundscape. The accompanying dance often features performers wielding traditional weapons like janbiya daggers and swords, mirroring the martial traditions of Yemen’s Bar’a dance. 

In contemporary Hyderabad, Marfa has transcended its origins to become an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric, prominently featured in various celebrations, including weddings and religious festivals. Its infectious energy and rhythmic complexity symbolise unity and shared heritage among diverse communities. Despite modern influences, traditional Marfa troupes preserve this art form, ensuring its transmission to future generations.

“Nothing kicks off the fest vibe like Marfa,” says one student from a central Hyderabad college. “It’s not just music—it’s movement, mood, and madness all rolled into one.” Another student shared, “We usually call a Marfa group for our freshers. Even those who’ve never heard it before get pulled in. It’s like a heartbeat—once it starts, you just can’t sit still.”

Today, Marfa remains a vibrant part of Hyderabad’s cultural landscape, transcending religious and social boundaries. Its infectious rhythms are a staple at Muslim weddings, Ganesh Visarjan processions, Durgashtami celebrations, and even farewells for students heading abroad. Marfa troupes, often clad in white kurtas and chequered scarves, perform for hours, blending Arabic compositions like “Ahlan Wasahlan” with local tunes such as “Saali ke Bagh” and even popular film songs. Despite challenges like dwindling patronage and the pressures of modernisation, dedicated artists continue to uphold this tradition, ensuring that Marfa’s spirited beats remain an enduring symbol of Hyderabad’s multicultural heritage. 

Marfa in Pop Culture: From Traditional Beats to Modern Celebrations.  

Marfa music, with its Afro-Arab roots, has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of Hyderabad’s contemporary celebrations, transcending its traditional confines. Originally introduced by the Siddi and Chaush communities during the Nizam era, the art form has evolved to become a staple in various events across the city. Its infectious rhythms are not only a highlight at Muslim weddings but also resonate during Ganesh Chaturthi processions, political rallies, and even during the arrival of VIPs in the city. The adaptability of Marfa is evident as bands incorporate popular film songs into their performances, ensuring relevance with younger audiences. 

“There’s something about the beat of the daff that just lifts the entire crowd—it’s not just music, it’s an experience,” remarked one undergraduate student at a college fest. Another student from a city college, who is not originally from Hyderabad, shared, “We start every cultural night with a Marfa entry now. It sets the tone and feels rooted, especially for those of us who grew up hearing it at weddings.” These anecdotal accounts reflect how Marfa has been recontextualised as a performative and collective tradition among the youth, often accompanied by choreographed sword movements, synchronised group formations, and a sense of cultural pride.

In the realm of music videos and digital media, Marfa’s influence is unmistakable. Artists like DJ Nikhil Martyn have produced tracks such as “Marfa Pakka Hyderabadi Bass,” blending traditional Marfa rhythms with contemporary electronic beats, garnering significant attention on platforms like YouTube. Additionally, performances by groups like Jabri Bin Marfa have brought Marfa to international audiences, showcasing its versatility and appeal. These modern interpretations not only preserve the essence of Marfa but also introduce it to a global audience, ensuring its continued relevance in today’s diverse musical landscape.