Keeping Traditions Alive Across Generations

Himalayan Folkways works with families, youth, artists and educators to preserve cultural traditions of communities worldwide.

Support Our Work

About Himalayan Folkways

Himalayan Folkways is a cultural research and community-based organization dedicated to sustaining living traditions in a rapidly changing world. We work directly with tradition bearers, educators, artists and communities to ensure that cultural knowledge remains active, relevant and transferable across generations.

Our approach is rooted in ethnographic research and long-term relationships. We support cultural practices as lived systems of knowledge shaped by history, place, and people. This means working slowly, ethically and collaboratively with those who hold and practice these traditions.

Building stronger communities through living culture.

Our Story

Himalayan Folkways began with grassroots cultural research and outreach in Northeast India, shaped by close collaboration with tradition bearers and educators. What started as localized work grew organically as similar needs emerged within Indian diaspora communities abroad.

Through schools, senior centers, workshops, research initiatives, and public festivals, the organization expanded its reach while maintaining a community-first approach.

Founded and led by ethnomusicologists Hans Utter and Utpola Borah, Himalayan Folkways bridges academic research with lived cultural practice. Their work prioritizes ethical collaboration, long-term relationships, and responsible cultural transmission.

Our Mission

To preserve and promote cultural traditions worldwide, with special emphasis on underrepresented and displaced communities, by connecting elders, youth, artists, and educators through meaningful cultural engagement.

Our Vission

A world where traditional knowledge is respected as living knowledge, where younger generations see heritage as relevant, and where cultural exchange builds belonging rather than erasing identity.

Who We Serve

Children & youth with limited access to arts and heritage education

Senior citizens & tradition bearers whose wisdom risks being lost

Immigrant & refugee families seeking belonging and identity

Broader communities eager to connect across cultures

Donate for a Cause

Your support sustains heritage education, builds intergenerational connections, and strengthens cultural exchange globally.

Impact of Giving:

• $25 – Provides materials for one student workshop
• $100 – Sponsors an artist exchange session
• $500 – Supports community heritage projects
• $1,000 – Brings elders and youth together to share traditions

Recurring Donations: Become a monthly donor and help us build year-round programs.

Donate Today