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Folk Literature & Oral Traditions

Master this topic with zero to advance depth.

1. Folk Songs (Lok Geet)

• Separation/Love: Kurja (Migratory bird message), Mumhal (Beauty of Princess of Lodarva), Suvatiya (Bhil woman's memory). • Ceremonial: Gorbandh (Camel neck ornament), Panihari (Faithful water-fetcher), Indoni. • Seasonal: Hariyala Banna, Phag (Holi), Kajali (Monsoon).

2. Phad (Painted Scrolled Narratives)

• Pabuji ri Phad: Most popular; played with Ravanhatta instrument by Nayak Bhopas. • Devnarayan ji ri Phad: Longest and oldest; played with Jantar instrument. A postage stamp was released on it. • Ramdala-Krishnadala Phad: Narration without any musical instrument.

3. Folk Drama (Lok Natya)

• Khyal: Kuchamani (Lachiram), Shekhawati (Nanuram), Jaipuri (Liberal/Female roles). • Rammat: Popular in Bikaner/Jaisalmer (played during Holi). • Gavari: Daily performance by Bhils (Buriya/Shiva as main character). • Tamasha: Famous in Jaipur; started by Bansidhar Bhatt.

4. Folk Ballads (Lok Gatha)

• Bagdawat: Epic of 24 Gurjar brothers. • Dhola-Maru: Famous romantic epic.

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