The Forgotten Indian Roots of Flamenco
The Romani endured centuries of persecution to shape Spain’s most iconic dance. Now, a new generation is reclaiming its history.
In a memorable moment from Hindi film Guzaarish (2010), Aishwarya Rai’s Sofia snaps her fingers to a castanet’s beat to “Udi Teri Aankhon Se.” As the music reaches a crescendo, she stomps her feet, twirling in a flamenco motion called “vuelo de la falda,” or “the flight of the skirt.” But to many from the Indian subcontinent, the dance looks hauntingly familiar.
Most of us grew up learning that flamenco is Spain’s national treasure. But the musical form has roots far closer to us than we thought. Around the 10th century, Indians from Rajasthan and Punjab migrated to Europe, bringing their music, rhythm, and dance.
The Romani people would endure persecution, slavery, and even genocide, but flamenco remains one of their lasting legacies. As the Romani round their 600-year-anniversary in Spain this year, a new generation is alerting the world: Indians and the Romani share a musical soul. Flamenco isn’t Spanish — indeed, its history is far more complex.