Baul

Representing the rich folk traditions of the rural Bengal, the Baul forms a group of singers who move from place to place to express their inner most feelings through their songs. The traditional folk singers of West Bengal, the Bauls bears relics of the rich historical and cultural legacy of the region.

Derived from the Sanskrit word Batul, the Baul singers reflect on the mystical nature of life. The Baul group of singers do not believe in any kind of social divisions of religion or caste. Instead according to this mystical poets, man is part of the Supreme Being. The egalitarian society of the Bauls displays their unique yet enriched thought process.

This unique folk tradition of Bengal rose into prominence during the Bhakti Movement. The Bhakti Movement brought about a revolutionary change in the social and cultural scenario of India, in the middle ages. Keeping in tune with the main theme of the Bhakti Movement that erased all kinds of social divisions among people, the Baul Singers found their own identity. They made the Bhakti Movement popular through their simple compositions. The Baul Singers expressed their devotion and dedication to the Supreme Being in the form of beautiful compositions.

The great Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore realized the philosophy of the Baul tradition and made it famous through his various musical compositions and literary creativities. Clad in simple clothes, the Baul singers wander in search of truth. They spread the message of equality and love through their musical compositions.

The Baul Singers have carved an important place for themselves in the international arena as well. The Baul Singers have popularized and influenced the western world with their vision and philosophy of equality, devotion and love for the fellow being.