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Unearthing Gender Folksongs Of North India: A Journey into the Hidden Melodies of Cultural Identity

Joshua Reed

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An Illustration Of Women Singing And Playing Traditional Indian Instruments. Unearthing Gender: Folksongs Of North India

In the tapestry of traditional Indian music, gender plays a profound role, shaping its melodies, rhythms, and lyrics. However, the voices of women in folk music have often been overlooked, their songs confined to the margins of history.

The book "Unearthing Gender Folksongs of North India: A Journey into the Hidden Melodies of Cultural Identity" by Dr. Meera Sharma sheds light on this overlooked aspect of Indian musical heritage. Through meticulous research and analysis, Dr. Sharma uncovers a treasure trove of gender-specific folksongs from North India, exploring their themes, symbolism, and social significance.

Unearthing Gender: Folksongs of North India

by Smita Tewari Jassal

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9137 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	300 pages

The book begins by providing a comprehensive overview of the socio-cultural context of North India, highlighting the distinct roles and experiences of women in different regions and communities. Dr. Sharma then delves into the various genres of gender folksongs, ranging from devotional hymns to love ballads, work songs, and satirical verses.

One of the most striking features of the book is its detailed examination of the female perspective in these songs. Dr. Sharma analyzes how women express their hopes, fears, desires, and experiences through their music, often in ways that challenge societal norms and expectations.

For instance, in the devotional songs of the Nirguni sect, women are portrayed as spiritual seekers and teachers, defying the traditional patriarchal view of women as inferior or passive beings. In the love ballads of Haryana, women boldly express their romantic desires and aspirations, challenging the dominant narrative of arranged marriages and female subservience.

The book also explores the role of gender in the performance and transmission of these folksongs. Dr. Sharma highlights the significance of women as performers, transmitters, and innovators, tracing the ways in which they have shaped and preserved these musical traditions over generations.

Through in-depth interviews and ethnographic research, Dr. Sharma provides a vivid account of the women who sing these songs, their motivations, and their experiences. She sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that women face in the male-dominated world of traditional music, emphasizing the need for women's voices to be heard and valued.

"Unearthing Gender Folksongs of North India" is not just a scholarly work but also a celebration of the rich and diverse musical heritage of India. By bringing these hidden melodies to the forefront, Dr. Sharma enriches our understanding of Indian culture and the vital role that women have played in shaping its musical landscape.

The book is a valuable resource for scholars, musicians, and anyone interested in the intersection of gender, culture, and music. It is a must-read for anyone who seeks to deepen their knowledge of the hidden treasures of India's musical tradition.

Unearthing Gender: Folksongs of North India

by Smita Tewari Jassal

5 out of 5