Each region in Rajasthan has its songs, music and every festival is an occasion for musical expression. It is not at all unusual in Rajasthan to see musicians, singers, performers and entertainers even by the street side.
There are songs created by the folk Bard in the past that still continue to be sung today like on the occasions of birth, death, naming ceremony, sacred thread ceremony, wedding and the changing seasons etc. The folk songs of Rajasthan capture every mood, love and separation, the joy of togetherness, the strong family ties and the simple joy and sorrows of every day life, heroism, honour, valour and chivalry.
There is a richness and diversity in Rajasthan music which comes from a long and comparatively undisturbed tradition, feudal patronage and from a culture that has imbibed the best from its neighbouring states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab. The voices of both males and females are strong and powerful.
It is really a treat to hear a characteristic style of singing, Maand. The core melody is a plaintive rendition of the state’s saga of love, sacrifice, duty and chivalry. The Maand singing marks ceremonial occasions and musical feasts.
There are songs that relate to the theme of love, separation and union with the beloved. The Peepli and Nihalde implore the loved one not to leave or return early.
