Folk Songs of Bihar
During the famous chhath parva of Bihar, there is much music and a lot of singing of Folk Songs of Bihar, both at home and on the river bank.The historical ballads dealing with the heroic deeds of the freedom fighter Kunwar Singh have also been immortalized through Folk Songs of Bihar in the plain tracts . The folk songs of Bihar has survived all attacks of modernism. Some performers of Bihar’s traditions have achieved commercial success. For example, Sharda Sinha (b. 1953) sings Bihari language folk songs in concerts throughout the world and has released many recordings. Maithil musicians, who seem to have been more popular outside Bihar, enriched Nepalese music and carried the traditions of their Folk songs. Some of the ragas, which may be claimed as special to Bihar, are ‘Nachari’, ‘Phag’, ‘Chaita’, ‘Purbi’,’lagani rag’etc.In the religious-type of dance the gods and goddesses are invoked through dance accompanied by folk-songs and music.
The Folk Songs of Bihar has so deeply permeated in the life of the people that it is still alive. It has been preserved infact by the Women folk of Mithila in particular and by the village folk, especially the devotees who still keep it alive. It is a pleasure to hear women sing the songs.
Bihar, in the ancient times has been an important place for dance and music. In places like Vaishali and Rajgir, in ancient Bihar, beautiful girls acted as Nagar Shobhinis or town ornaments (courtesans). Lord Buddha himself accepted this fact and he himself received an invitation from Amrapalli, the chief courtesan of Vaishali. These girls were proficient in music and dancing and were part of processions of religious and social nature. It appears that singing and dancing were the chief amusements of that age.
The regular history of Mithila music dates back from Nanyadeva (1097-1133), a great patron of music and author of a treatise on this art. He developed the popular ragas on systematic lines. This Mithila music was carried to Nepal, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, etc. Later during the Muslim period, music and dance met with many set-backs as these were tabooed for them. But the famous saint of Bihar, H.Sharif-ud-din Ahmed Manari, was not averse to music, vocal or instrumental.
Bhajans,Kirtans, singing of religious songs accompanied by Musical instruments like Jhal, Dholak, Harmonium, etc, are still quite common, although this form of entertainment in the villages is on the decline. Entertainment by the singing of lyrics in particular season is also a typical characteristic. Kajari,Chaita,Birha and Basant songs in different seasons hold a special appeal for the villagers. While turning the grinding stone to grind the grain, women-folk burst into ‘Jatasari’ songs. ‘Sohar’ and ‘Jhumar’ songs are forms of traditional entertainment. In Jhumar, there is a synthesis of both music and dance. Pastoral songs appeal particularly to the rural folk and these songs constitute significant element of local folklore.
Ramlila, Nautanki and the Bhikharia songs enthral thousands of men and women in the fairs and gatherings. Ramlila is essentially religious and based on active presentation of the story of Rama and Sita. Nautanki are social plays, where many social evils are caricatured and they have an educative value. Bhikharia songs have a wide range of themes and usually they aim at social inhibitions and drawbacks of the Society.
Festival songs mark another important category of folk-song.Navaratra is religious and ritualistic to the core. People, especially women-folk, worship goddess Devi for nine days with proper rituals and observe fast. During the festivals, music conferences are arranged. There are certain rural centres where fine forms of music have been developed. Darbhanga, Panchgachia in Saharsa district, Ara and Jhabua towns have developed prolifically the music of various forms. There used to be a school of music where village girls and boys were being trained in playing of Mridanga.
Pastoral songs express the thoughts, aspirations and sorrows of the villagers. Kuvar-Vijay folk songs are historical while Sobhnaika is sung at the time of marriage. Folk songs are widely recited and appreciated on religious and social occasions like Nagpanchami, Janmasthami, Tiz, Chauk Chanda, Anant, Chhath, karma etc.
The marriage ceremony holds an important place among the ceremonies prescribed by both shastras and folklore. This ceremony lasting for several days is equally important for Folk Songs. For example, some Folk Songs are called nehchu songs, sung on the nail-cutting ceremony of the bridegroom. Jyonar is also a form of folk-song which is sung when the bride and the wedding party enjoy a feast. These jyonar songs enumerate the things which are being served in the feast. Marriage songs can be said to be of three categories. The first one is ritualistic and has an air of magical charm about it. Various spirits are involved by a song and imagining that the spirits are coming in they are shut up in the cap, which is pasted on the wall of a room, and which during these marriage days is called ‘Kohbar’. There are other songs imploring the presence and protection of various divinities and spirits.
Purely seasonal songs are those which are sung during raining season, specially in the Savan and Bhadon. A class of these songs is called malhar. These songs express the pleasure of ladies when they enjoy ‘rimjhim’ or Light showers. They insist in swinging (jhula) while singing with their friends and relatives.
A category of songs are those in which women are free to sing according to their own choice and pleasure, expressing feelings and emotions for different occasions. As this is a very important occasion in the family life, there are many glimpses of delicate family relationship and finer sentiments.
Folk Songs (lok geet) is a very important form of folk literature. One of the categories of folk-songs is the ceremonial or sanskar songs. These songs form an essential part of rituals of various ceremonies relating to child- birth, initiation (yagyopavita or janeu) ,marriage and in some areas with rituals of death as well. Child-birth, initiation and marriage and other ceremonies are accessions of great happiness and joy. But on such occasions great care is taken to avoid any misfortune; hence the ceremonial songs and rituals are believed to have a magical potency.
The Folk Songs of the tribals have a strong ethical background. Just as in their dance there is no semblance of base. In spite of the absence of a script, many of the songs have been preserved. They have been handed down from generation to generation by the old men and women singing the songs to the younger generation and making them sing. The younger ones have the dancing floor to themselves. But the older generation, men and women, sit, watch and correct mistakes and provide guidance in music or rhythm. Purity and the primeval form in tribal poetry, songs or dance has been preserved wonderfully, although without any written literature.
In their social life there is no place for the individual and it is the community for which the individuals exits. So the tribal Folk Songs have a moral and cultural bearing which makes them the common property of the entire community and the world at large. The universal appeal is a remarkable feature of the tribal Folk Songs and music.
Folk Songs is an integral part of daily life all over rural Bihar. The songs of shepherds grazing their herd, riders hauling produce or goods on their bullock-carts, or menfolk gathered under the shade of a banyan or peepal tree are amazing. Radio and television have added new dimensions to Folk Songs, making different styles known outside their language area. There are a number of people, who earn their livelihood by means of Folk Songs of bihar.
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Folk songs of Bihar are a rich and vibrant part of the state’s culture. They are sung in a variety of styles, each with its own unique flavor. Some of the most popular folk songs of Bihar include jatra, bidesia, chaita, kavi sammelan, lokgeet, natya sangeet, rajanigandha, sahityika, shiva mahima, tansen, and vir ras.
Jatra is a type of folk theater that is popular in Bihar. It is usually performed in a village setting, and the songs that are sung during jatra performances are often about love, loss, and social issues.
Bidesia is a type of folk song that is sung about people who have left their home villages to work in other parts of India. The songs often express the sadness and longing that the bidesia feels for their home and family.
Chaita is a type of folk song that is sung during the spring festival of Holi. The songs are often about love, romance, and the beauty of nature.
Kavi sammelan is a type of poetry recital that is popular in Bihar. The poets who participate in kavi sammelans often sing their poems, and the songs that they sing are often about social and political issues.
Lokgeet is a type of folk song that is sung in a variety of styles. The songs often express the joys and sorrows of everyday life.
Natya sangeet is a type of folk opera that is popular in Bihar. The songs that are sung during natya sangeet performances are often about love, loss, and social issues.
Rajanigandha is a type of folk song that is sung about the beauty of the night sky. The songs often express the singer’s love for nature and the universe.
Sahityika is a type of folk song that is sung about the beauty of literature. The songs often express the singer’s love for poetry, drama, and fiction.
Shiva mahima is a type of folk song that is sung about the Hindu god Shiva. The songs often express the singer’s devotion to Shiva and their belief in his power.
Tansen is a type of folk song that is sung about the famous Indian musician Tansen. The songs often express the singer’s admiration for Tansen’s musical talent.
Vir ras is a type of folk song that is sung about warriors and heroes. The songs often express the singer’s admiration for courage and bravery.
Bihar’s folk songs are a rich and vibrant part of the state’s culture. They are sung in a variety of styles, each with its own unique flavor. The songs often express the joys and sorrows of everyday life, as well as the people’s love for nature, literature, and music.
Here are some frequently asked questions and short answers about folk songs:
What is a folk song?
A folk song is a traditional song that is passed down orally from generation to generation. Folk songs are often associated with a particular region or culture, and they can be about a variety of topics, such as love, work, and nature.
What are some characteristics of folk songs?
Folk songs are typically simple in melody and structure, and they often use repetitive lyrics. They are often sung in a call-and-response style, and they can be accompanied by simple instruments, such as a guitar or a fiddle.
What are some examples of folk songs?
Some well-known folk songs include “John Henry,” “Amazing Grace,” and “The Ballad of Jesse James.”
What is the history of Folk Music?
Folk music has been around for centuries, and it is thought to have originated in ancient times. Folk music was originally passed down orally, and it was not until the invention of the printing press that folk songs began to be written down.
What are some of the different types of folk music?
There are many different types of folk music, including ballads, lullabies, work songs, and dance songs.
What is the role of folk music in society?
Folk music has played an important role in many cultures throughout history. It has been used to tell stories, to pass down traditions, and to celebrate important events. Folk music can also be a powerful tool for Social Change.
What are some of the benefits of listening to folk music?
Listening to folk music can provide a sense of connection to a particular culture or region. It can also be a way to learn about history and traditions. Folk music can also be enjoyed for its simple beauty and its ability to evoke strong emotions.
Where can I learn more about folk music?
There are many Resources available for Learning more about folk music. You can find books, websites, and even museums dedicated to folk music. You can also find folk music performances in many communities.
Sure, here are some MCQs about folk songs from different parts of the world:
Which of the following is not a type of folk song?
(A) Ballad
(B) Lullaby
(C) Rap
(D) Work songWhich of the following is not a characteristic of folk songs?
(A) They are passed down orally from generation to generation.
(B) They are often anonymous.
(C) They are typically simple in melody and harmony.
(D) They are often about love, loss, or nature.Which of the following is not a country where folk songs are popular?
(A) United States
(B) Canada
(C) Mexico
(D) JapanWhich of the following is not a traditional folk instrument?
(A) Fiddle
(B) Guitar
(C) Drum
(D) PianoWhich of the following is not a traditional folk dance?
(A) Square dance
(B) Waltz
(C) Salsa
(D) BreakdanceWhich of the following is not a traditional folk costume?
(A) Kilt
(B) Sari
(C) Kimono
(D) TuxedoWhich of the following is not a traditional folk food?
(A) Pizza
(B) Tacos
(C) Sushi
(D) HamburgerWhich of the following is not a traditional folk festival?
(A) Oktoberfest
(B) Carnival
(C) Thanksgiving
(D) ChristmasWhich of the following is not a traditional folk art?
(A) Weaving
(B) Pottery
(C) Painting
(D) KnittingWhich of the following is not a traditional folk story?
(A) Cinderella
(B) Snow White
(C) The Three Little Pigs
(D) The Lord of the Rings
I hope these questions were challenging and fun!