Priya Gakhar is enjoying an upbeat Diwali by sharing her love for Dhol

Join host Raksha Burman in conversation with Priya Gakhar who shares the story of her journey from semi professional soccer player to professional dhol player following a life threatening health condition. Discover her favourite Diwali food and the joy of playing the Dhol for her community.

Priya Gakhar stands with a dhol

Priya has been playing soccer since she was four years old.

Watching ‘Bend it like Beckham’ as a five year old had a big impact on her career ambitions.

Priya started playing soccer when she was four

She eventually made it to the USA on a scholarship playing semi professional soccer, but her dream was disrupted by a sudden life threatening illness that halted her soccer career.

Back in Australia for medical treatment Priya managed the isolation of covid lockdowns by learning to play the dhol.

I was always interested in dhol, I love the sound of it. I have punjabi roots. I found it really helped me mentally.

Priya Gakhar

Today, Priya Gakhar is one of only five female dholis in Australia and joins a growing club of women breaking down barriers in the world of music.

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Priya Gakhar is enjoying an upbeat Diwali by sharing her love for Dhol

SBS Audio

10/11/202322:53

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