Folk Music of Northern India represents the vast cultural diversity of India. Since ages, numerous types of folk music have evolved in different regions of the country. A variety of songs have been composed in the folk music which accompany different events and moods. Folk Musical Instruments also form a significant part of this age old legacy which make the folk songs even livelier. Several poets and saints have abundantly contributed in this field since ages.
Folk Music of Himachal Pradesh
A variety of folk music has developed in Himachal Pradesh over years which have become an inseparable part of the folk culture of the state. Laman songs are a kind of love song sung especially in Kullu Valley. Another kind of folk songs are Samskara songs which are generally sung by the women of higher classes in festivals and celebrations. Ainchaliyan are sung during weddings in the bride`s house. Another unique folk music sung and played by wandering musicians is Chamba -Pangi.
Folk Music of Punjab
Folk music of Punjab is also famous for their rhythm and uniqueness. Traditional folk songs of this state include Mirza and Heer. The state has compositions for different occasions like festivals, life rituals and many more. Folk romances of Punjab are Mahia, Jindua, Kafian, Jugni, Tappe, Bolian, Sadda and Jindua. Many folk songs of this region are dedicated to bravery. Islam in Punjab practice Qawwalis, Hamds and Naats.
Folk Music of Jammu and Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir has a rich legacy of folk music. The folk songs of this region are popular for their enchanting memories. Chakri is one of the most famous folk songs of Jammu and Kashmir in the form of which fairy tales and popular love stories are narrated. The musical instruments accompanying this famous genre of music are sarangi, rubab and Harmonium A form of sarcastic singing is Ladishah that depict the social and political conditions in a humorous manner. Sufiana Kalam is a form of classical music comprising of its own ragas.
Folk Music of Uttar Pradesh
Rasiya is the most renowned folk song of Uttar Pradesh. This genre of songs is sung to celebrate the sacred love of Lord Krishna and Radha. These songs are performed mainly during festivals along with large drums.
Folk Music of Uttarakhand
Folk Music of Uttarakhand is deeply associated with nature and in the course of time they have undergone numerous transformations. A variety of songs have been composed for different occasions which enrich the folk culture of this state greatly. Bajuband are songs that describe the love and sacrifice. Basanti are folk songs performed in groups or singly to celebrate the commencement of spring season. Another category of folk music in Uttarakhand is Chhura which is sung by shepherds. Khuded are narrations of suffering of women owing to her separation from husband. During marriage ceremonies, Mangal songs are sung. Chhopati are another type of love songs sung among men and women in the form of questions and answers.
Folk Music of Northern India depicts different phases of life and society. The huge variety in this genre of music represents the social, economic as well as political set up of respective regions. Apart from this, several other themes are also covered by these songs. Folk music prominently showcases the cultural diversity of the country as well as greatly enriches its cultural heritage.