Folk music can be defined as the music that grows naturally within a community, doesn’t follow any written pattern at the initial level, but is passed from generation to generation by listening and repeating. This music reflects the social and cultural lives of the people and their history. Folk music embodies the essence of Indian culture, being both ancient and including contemporary elements. Folk music exhibits continuity, as songs performed by several individuals undergo modifications in melody, lyrics, and rhythm. This process is primarily achieved through three distinct approaches: Folk music preserves ancient traditions and links contemporary generations with the past through songs, musical instruments, and dances that embody memories, narratives, or values from prior generations. Folk music provides individuals with the opportunity to express their creativity and sustain the genre. Over time, several songs, instruments, and dance forms diminish. The music cherished by the community is commemorated and promoted. The incorporation of elements into a community's musical traditions is dependent upon that community's preferences.
Through this study, an effort is made to explore the cultural meaning, historical depth and artistic continuity of Bundeli folk musical instruments in the shadow of the broader Lok tradition. Special focus is given to show how these instruments bridge past and present, the way they are represented in temple art during Chandela’s, and how they continue to form living tradition deeply connected to the identity of the local communities. In this paper mainly Chhatarpur District of Madhya Pradesh and its nearby areas will be discussed.
International Journal of History
