Traditional Folk Songs from Punjab
Contents
Here you can find a collection of traditional folk songs from the Punjab region. You can listen to the songs, read the lyrics, and learn more about the culture and history of the Punjab region.
Introduction
Punjab is a land of rich culture and tradition. For centuries, the people of Punjab have been known for their love of music and dance. They have a strong tradition of folk music, which is an important part of their cultural heritage.
Folk songs from Punjab are often based on traditional stories and legends. They are usually sung in the Punjabi language, but they may also be sung in other languages such as Hindi or Urdu.
Punjabi folk songs are usually very upbeat and lively. They often have a strong beat that makes them perfect for dancing. Some of the most popular folk songs from Punjab include “Dulla Bhatti” and “Sohni Mahiwal”.
If you want to experience the rich culture and heritage of Punjab, then you should definitely listen to some traditional folk songs from this region.
History
Folk songs from the Punjab region of India and Pakistan are rich in history and tradition. For centuries, these songs have been passed down from generation to generation, carrying with them the culture and values of the Punjab people. These songs are an important part of the Punjab heritage and have been preserved by the people of the region for centuries.
The Mughal Era
The Mughal era in Punjab was a period of great religious and cultural synthesis. It saw the emergence of new musical styles and the fusion of Hindu and Muslim traditions. This was a time when folk music flourished, and many of the Punjab’s most popular songs were created during this period.
The mughal influence on Punjabi music can be heard in the use of instruments such as the sitar and tabla, as well as in the use of Persian musical scales. The mughals also introduced new genres of music, such as qawwali and Sufi music. These genres would go on to have a profound impact on Punjabi music, and many of Punjab’s most popular songs are based on these traditions.
During the Mughal era, Punjabi music became more refined and sophisticated. This was due in part to the patronage of the Mughal rulers, who encouraged musicians to court and develop their skills. Many famous musicians emerged during this period, including Mian Tansen, one of the most celebrated musicians in Indian history.
The Mughal era was a golden age for Punjabi music, and many of the songs that were created during this time are still popular today. If you want to discover the roots of Punjabi music, then this is a perfect place to start your journey.
The British Era
The British era in Punjab was from 1849 to 1947. During this time, Punjabi folk music developed under the influence of western music. After the Partition of India in 1947, most of the Muslim musicians migrated to Pakistan, where they continued to develop Punjabi folk music.
Partition of India
The partition of India was the division of British India on August 14–15, 1947 into two sovereign dominion states, the Union of India (later Republic of India) and the Dominion of Pakistan (later Islamic Republic of Pakistan, together with the eastern and western parts of Bengal and Punjab). The partition was marked by massive violence and religious symbols were often destroyed in an attempt to end Hindu-Muslim unity.
Types of Folk Songs
There are various types of folk songs that are popular in the Punjab region. These include love songs, religious songs, songs about nature, and historical songs. Each type of song has its own unique style and purpose.
Love Songs
Love folk songs are sad, romantic ballads sung by both men and women. These songs often talk about heartbreak, loss, and unfulfilled love. Many of these songs are centuries old, and they often reflect the social customs and values of the time.
One of the most famous love songs is “Heer,” which was written by Waris Shah in the 18th century. “Heer” is a tragic story about a young woman who is forced to marry someone she does not love. The song is still popular today, and it has been recorded by many different artists.
Other popular love folk songs include “Saif-ul-Muluk,” “Sohni Mahiwal,” “Mirza Sahiba,” and “Bewafa Sanam.”
Wedding Songs
Wedding songs are usually upbeat and celebratory, meant to get people up and dancing. In Punjab, wedding songs are an important part of the ceremony, and often reflect the joy and happiness of the occasion. Some popular wedding songs from Punjab include:
-“Balle Balle” by Aman Hayer
-“Jugni” by Arif Lohar
-“Taare Gin Gin” by Lehmber Hussainpuri
-“Chak De Phattey” by Malkit Singh
These are just a few of the many folk songs that are commonly sung at weddings in Punjab. Whether you’re looking for a traditional song to dance to or something more modern, there is sure to be a wedding song that is perfect for you.
Lullabies
Lullabies are often songs passed down from mother to child. In addition to being used to help a baby sleep, lullabies can be used to soothe a baby, express affection, or even teach a lesson.
Many lullabies have been around for centuries, and have been passed down through the generations orally. As a result, there are often many different versions of the same lullaby. The lyrics and melody of lullabies often change over time to reflect the culture of the community where they are sung.
Folk songs from Punjab are often passed down through families as well. These songs often reflect the culture and traditions of the Sikh community.
Work Songs
Work songs were created to make manual labor more bearable and were often filled with double-meanings and humorous lyrics. Work songs were some of the earliest folk songs and continue to be popular today. In the United States, work songs were common on plantations and in slave quarters, lumber camps, logging camps, coal mines and factories. The world-famous bluegrass singerDoc Watson grew up working in the fields with his father and learned many of the old work songs while he was working.
Instruments Used in Folk Songs
Folk songs of Punjab are traditionally sung accompanied by a string instrument called the tumbi, and a percussion instrument called the dholak. The tumbi is a one-stringed instrument played with a plectrum, and the dholak is a two-headed hand drum. These two instruments are essential for playing folk music from Punjab.
The Tumbi
The tumbi is a traditional folk instrument from Punjab. It is a one-stringed instrument that is plucked with the thumb. The tumbi is often used in traditional folk songs from Punjab, and it has a distinctive sound that is instantly recognizable.
The Sarangi
The Sarangi is a string instrument used in traditional Punjabi folk songs. It is played with a bow, and has a very unique sound. The Sarangi is made out of wood, and has four strings. It is a very popular instrument in Punjab, and is often used in wedding festivities.
The Dholak
The dholak is a widely used musical instrument in folk songs originating from Punjab. It is a two-headed hand drum with a skin stretched over each end. The drum is usually played with the bare hands, but sometimes sticks are used. The size of the dholak can vary, but it is typically about two feet long and one foot in diameter.
The dholak is usuallyaccompanied by other instruments such as the harmonium, Dilruba and tabla. It is also often played along with singing. The dholak provides a rhythmic beat that helps to keep the tempo of the song. It is an important part of many traditional folk songs from Punjab and other parts of India.
Conclusion
In conclusion, traditional folk songs from Punjab are an integral part of the state’s cultural heritage. These songs are a source of great pride and joy for the people of Punjab. They are a beautiful expression of the state’s rich history and culture, and they provide a valuable glimpse into the lives of the people who have lived here for centuries.
