The correct answer is: b) The patterns of work and daily life.
Folk songs are often passed down through generations and reflect the culture and traditions of the people who sing them. The rhythmic patterns in folk songs can often be traced back to the patterns of work and daily life of the people who created them. For example, many folk songs from agricultural societies have a strong beat that reflects the rhythm of the work that was done in the fields.
Classical Carnatic talas are a system of rhythmic cycles used in Indian classical music. They are complex and sophisticated systems that are not typically found in folk music. Western musical influences are also not typically found in folk music, as folk music is often very traditional and does not often borrow from other cultures. Devotional chanting is a type of religious music that is often characterized by its repetitive and rhythmic nature. However, devotional chanting is not typically considered to be folk music.
In conclusion, the rhythmic patterns in folk songs often reflect the patterns of work and daily life of the people who sing them. This is because folk songs are often passed down through generations and reflect the culture and traditions of the people who created them.