Folk Music is also known as music for the masses because of its popularity. It has an instant appeal due its simple form. Despite being different from Indian Classical music, folk music is also a living and integral part of Indian classical music culture. The term folk music originated in the 19th century, but is now often applied to music older than it. Each state in this country has its own style of music that serves as the foundation for its cultural identity. In this article, we will study folk music from the perspective of UPSC exam preparation.

What is Folk Music?

• Folk Music is a genre of music that has passed from generations over several years mainly through oral means.
• It lives on traditions and cultures practiced in families, communities and small social groups.
• While classical music adheres to the Natyashastra rules and cultivates a guru-shishya (student-mentor) tradition, folk music is the music of the people and has no hard and fast rules.
• They have a variety of themes and are full of musical rhythm. They are also set to beats, allowing them to be dance-oriented.
• There are various types of folk music associated with each state.

Features of Folk Music

• It consists of classical ragas, for instance, raga manda is very popular in Rajasthani folk music.
• Knowledge associated with it is transmitted orally rather than from written sources and hence musical compositions cannot be traced to a specific source
• Its propagation and survival is based on acceptance by the community
• Each performance is unique to a specific region and it is a reflection of rural society and culture.
• This type of music tells stories of life and traditions that have been forgotten or are on the verge of disappearing.
• Increased repetition is involved. The first line of the song is important and usually the other lines are set to rhyme with it.
• Lyrics of the folk songs are mostly in the form of a set of questionnaires that helps develop a relationship between the performer and the viewer.
• Famous themes on which folk songs are performed include: agriculture songs, caste songs, region songs, children's songs, songs of god, goddesses, local songs etc.

Famous Folk Music Associated with States

Baul

• It is not only a type of music, but also a religious sect in Bengal. Baul Sangeet, or Baul Sangeet music, is a type of folk song.
• Its lyrics are influenced by Hindu Bhakti movements and Suphi, a type of Sufi song exemplified by Kabir's songs and known as 'Baul Gaan' or Baul song.
• Their music represents a long tradition in Bengal of preaching mysticism through songs, as in the Shahebdhoni or Bolahadi sects.
• Yotin Das, Purno Chandra Das, Lalon Phakir, Naboni Das, and Sanatan Das Thakur Baul are prominent proponents of this music.

Wanawan

• It is traditional Kashmiri folk music.
• It is especially sung at weddings and is considered very auspicious.

Pandavani

• This type of folk music is based on the great epic Mahabharata and its hero, Bhima.
• Gayan (singing) and vadan are both included (playing an instrument).
• The songs are usually set to the rhythm of a tambura.
• Tijanbai from the state of Chhattisgarh is one of the most well-known artists, having received the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan for her contributions to this musical field.

Alha

• This Madhya Pradesh form is a heroic ballad song with intricate lyrics. It is usually sung in various languages such as Braj, Awadhi, and Bhojpuri.
• This form is also related to the epic Mahabharata because it attempts to glorify the heroes who are seen as reincarnations of the Pandavas.
• The Pandavas (five brothers) are represented here as Alha, Udal, Malkhan, Lakhan, and Deva.

Panihari

• This form is from the state of Rajasthan and has a water theme.
• The songs are mostly about women fetching water from a nearby well and carrying it back to their homes in matkas draped over their heads.
• The songs usually deal with water scarcity and the long distance between the well and the village.
• Sometimes the songs address the daily concerns of the village women who congregate near the village well.
• Other times, the songs focus on a chance encounter between lovers, so they are romantic in nature.
• They also discuss the contentious relationship between the mother in law and the daughter in law.

Ovi

• This type of music is native to Maharashtra and Goa.
• They are usually women's songs, which are sung by women in their spare time and while doing their household chores.
• They usually have four small lines of poetry in them.
• These are typically songs written for weddings, pregnancy, and as children's lullabies.

Pai Song

• The majority of these songs are from Madhya Pradesh.
• They are sung at festivals, especially those that take place during the rainy season.
• As these are farmer communities' songs, they generally beg for a 'good monsoon and a good harvest.'
• The Saira dance is typically performed to Pai music.

Lavani

• This is one of Maharashtra's most well-known folk dance forms. It is also one of the most popular types of music in Maharashtra.
• It is a fusion of traditional dance and song that is usually performed to the beats of the Dholki, a percussion instrument.
• The music is one-of-a-kind because it is ideal for dancing. It has a strong rhythm and beats that ensure everyone has a good time dancing.

Maand

• Rajasthan is the source of this folk music. It is said to have evolved in royal courts and is thus recognised in classical circles.
• This is not considered a full-fledged Raga, nor is it considered one of the freely rendered folk songs.
• The songs are usually about bards singing about the Rajput rulers' glory.
• It's close to Thumri or Ghazal.
• The well-known song Kesariya Balam is written in the Maand style.

Dandiya

• Raas, also known as Dandiya Raas, is a traditional folk dance form of Gujarat that is associated with Holi scenes and the lila of Krishna and Radha in Vrindavan.
• There are several types of Raas, but the most popular is "Dandiya Raas," which is performed during Navaratri in Gujarat.
• Other types of Raas include Dang Lila from Rajasthan, which uses only one large stick, and "Rasa lila" from North India.
• Raas Lila and Dandiya Raas are quite similar.
• Some even consider "Garba" to be a subset of Raas, i.e. "Raas Garba."
• Men and women dance in two circles with sticks in their hands in Dandiya Raas.

Powada

• This is another folk type that has emerged from the state of Maharashtra.
• They are typically ballads sung in honour of historical heroes such as Shivaji.
• These songs recount events from their glorious past as well as heroic deeds.

Khongjom Parva

• It is a significant piece of Manipur folk music. It is a popular ballad genre that is a musical narration of the battle of Khongjom, which took place in 1891 between the British army and the Manipuri resistance forces.

Bhavageete

• These are emotional songs that are extremely popular among the people of Karnataka and Maharashtra
• Musically, they are similar to Ghazals but are sung at a lower pitch.
• They are typically composed on topics such as nature, love, and philosophy.

Mando

• It is well-known in Goa and is a unique fusion of Indian and Western musical traditions.
• The music combines elements of Indian and Western culture.
• Guitars, violins, and the ghumot drum are among the instruments used in Mando music.

Kolannalu or Kolattam

• It is popular in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
• It is comparable to "Dandiya."
• It is an ancient dance form that involves rhythmic movement.
• Along with the dance, songs and music are played.

Other Prominent Folk Music Traditions

Conclusion

India is a geographically diverse country, and this diversity is reflected in its culture. Dance and folk songs have always been an integral part of Indian society. Folk music is based on various social, religious engagements of the society. These folk-songs also enlighten us in getting knowledge about the culture of primitive societies and cultures.

FAQs

Q1: What is folk music?

Q2: How is folk music typically performed?

Q3: What are the key characteristics of folk music?

Q4: What role does folk music play in cultural preservation?

Q5: Can folk music evolve over time?

MCQs

1. Which of the following instruments is commonly associated with folk music?

a) Piano

b) Electric guitar

c) Banjo

d) Synthesizer

2. What is the primary function of folk music?

a) To entertain only

b) To express cultural identity

c) To promote commercial interests

d) To comply with government regulations

3. Which of the following genres is closely related to folk music?

a) Jazz

b) Rock

c) Bluegrass

d) Hip-hop

4. Folk music is primarily transmitted through which method?

a) Written notation

b) Digital recordings

c) Oral tradition

d) Television broadcasts

5. What theme is often found in folk music?

a) Corporate success

b) Personal wealth

c) Everyday life and social issues

d) Scientific discoveries

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Examine the significance of folk music in preserving cultural heritage.

Answer: Folk music plays a crucial role in preserving cultural heritage by acting as a repository of community stories, values, and traditions. It provides insight into the historical and social contexts of a community, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. Through its oral transmission, folk music ensures that cultural narratives are passed down through generations, allowing for continuity in cultural practices. Furthermore, folk music can serve as a platform for addressing contemporary issues while maintaining a connection to the past, thereby enriching cultural diversity.

Q2: Discuss the evolution of folk music in the context of globalization.

Answer: The evolution of folk music in the context of globalization reflects a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity. While globalization can lead to the homogenization of musical styles, it also fosters cross-cultural exchanges that enrich folk traditions. Artists may incorporate contemporary elements or collaborate with musicians from different genres, creating innovative hybrids that appeal to broader audiences. However, there is a risk that traditional forms may be diluted or lost. To counter this, efforts to document and promote local folk music practices can help preserve cultural identities amidst global influences.

Q3: Analyze the impact of technology on the dissemination of folk music.

Answer: Technology has significantly transformed the dissemination of folk music, broadening its reach and accessibility. The rise of digital platforms allows artists to share their work globally, enabling folk music to attract new audiences beyond local communities. Social media serves as a vital tool for promoting performances and connecting with listeners. Additionally, recording technology facilitates the preservation of folk traditions, allowing for archival and educational purposes. However, the challenge remains in balancing commercialization with authenticity, as artists navigate the pressures of modern music markets while striving to maintain their cultural roots.

Previous Year Questions on  Folk Music

1. UPSC CSE 2021

Question: "Analyze the role of folk music in shaping cultural identity in India."

Answer: Folk music in India plays a pivotal role in shaping cultural identity, reflecting the diverse traditions and practices across various regions. It serves as a medium for expressing local narratives, historical events, and social values, thus fostering a sense of belonging among communities. The variety in folk music styles—like Bhangra, Garba, and Lavani—exemplifies India's rich cultural tapestry. Furthermore, folk music acts as a platform for social commentary, addressing issues such as gender roles and community struggles. In an era of rapid modernization, preserving folk music is crucial for maintaining cultural continuity and diversity.

2. UPSC CSE 2020

Question: "Discuss how folk music contributes to the social cohesion of communities."

Answer: Folk music contributes significantly to the social cohesion of communities by fostering unity and shared identity. Through collective participation in musical traditions, such as festivals, ceremonies, and gatherings, individuals bond over shared experiences and cultural heritage. Folk music often embodies themes of communal life, reinforcing social norms and values while providing a sense of comfort and belonging. Additionally, it serves as a platform for intergenerational dialogue, where older and younger members exchange stories and knowledge, thereby strengthening community ties. In times of social change, folk music remains a vital tool for expressing collective resilience and solidarity.