Barshar Gaan I Songs Of The Field EPI 02 I Chandra Mukhopadhyay I চাষের গান I Jaladarsha

In the second episode of the songs of cultivation, Chandra Mukhopaddhay expands on the ways the songs have in intimately integrated into the social fabric of an agrarian society. These songs are not sung for an audience. These are not a part of "performative" but "participatory" art. Across the larger Bengal, one song finds various enunciations, in their way taking in local narratives and understanding of the rain cycle crucial for sustenance.

Women are at the forefront of such performances. They were the ones with the responsibility to provide food to the family. These songs are also part of ritualistic observance, practised and transferred across generations by these women. Important knowledge related to agrarian practices has also been transferred thus. A changing landscape has threatened the existence of these performances.

We have tried to preserve some glimpses from those performances inspired by and indebted to Dr. Mukhopaddhay's extensive research. Listen, learn, and spread it among your peers if you find it important. More exciting episodes are following suit. Stay tuned.

Recordist: Manisha Das
Paintings: Koustabh Chakrabarty
Creation: Priyanka Sil
Subtitles: Sayantoni Datta
Dotara :    / @freeloops  

Youth Artist Support Programme (YASP) by
Jaladarsha
a programme by Kissan Vikas Trust (KVT)