NAVYA C
FOLK MUSIC YOU MUST HEAR THIS MONSOON !
The term “ folk ” music itself says that they are the songs for the common people . These songs are fun , enjoyable and entertaining to hear . The lyrics are conversational , and the tunes are easily hummable for the common audience . The songs are thoroughly enjoyable and India being a diverse country in terms of cultural norms and unique features in every region , folk songs developed based on the local language , and their surroundings . Sometimes , folk songs can actually speak about social issues in such a painful and passionate way . The exuding rawness in the folk music is something pristine and remarkable . We bring you some of the finest folk music that has emerged over the centuries in India .
• Bihugeet- Assam : Geographically located in the north east , Bihugeet is all about the living conditions and the daily routines of the Assam people . Spanning over themes such as love , social message , and nature- Bihugeet is a beautiful listen during the monsoons .
• Lavani- Maharashtra : Highly rhythm based along with colorful Maharasthrian styled tunes , Lavani is dynamic and also speaks about the contemporary social issues . This form of folk music became nationally popular for its expertise .
• Maand- Rajasthan : When the desert it at its utmost calm , or when a sandstorm comes in- Maand is something one cannot miss when it comes to folk songs . With rustic voices singing the notes effortlessly , carrying the local stringed instruments and dressed in bright reds and greens , A visit to Rajasthan is guaranteed if their folk music is appreciated . One cannot forget the most popular Kesariya Baalam- which must be having a hundred different versions .
• Kajari- UP / Bihar : Sung by the womenfolk who yearn to see their beloved , Kajari is all about love and bonding . Originated from Mirzapur , this folk music will surely tug a heartstring for the emotional ride it takes us through .
• Pandavani- Orissa / AP / Chattisgarh / Madhya Pradesh : India has a long history of story telling , and many interesting stories were passed from generation to another through word of mouth . Folk music has been greatly responsible for this to happen . The lead singer uses the tanpura along with some dholak , and supporting instruments to tell about those forgotten stories in musical form .
• Bhavgeet- Karnataka : Also the home for Yaksha Gaana , Bhavgeet is an amazing folk genre from the breathtaking Karnataka . Written by famous Kannada poets and writers , the singer of this genre of music are out of the world . True to its name , there is some much of hidden meaning in the lines and the singer ’ s renditions . With the advent of printing and book , and later the Internet and mobile revolution- the art of passing stories through singing folk music has almost gone into obsolete stage . With COVID-19 around the corner , and people wishing to go back to their roots , folk music is a great place to start .; It also gives the listener an understanding of the region ’ s customs , their stories , and gain so much of valuable knowledge .
Take time this monsoon to make yourself dwell in the rustic folk music roads , and take your children and younger music lovers as well to get a remarkable and rewarding musical experience .
The Score Magazine
14 highonscore . com