‘Mangal’ folk songs are traditional to which Indian state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 3: Uttarakhand.
Explanation:
'Mangal' is an extremely significant and traditional folk song of the Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttarakhand. This song is sung collectively by women, particularly during weddings and other auspicious ceremonial occasions.
Purpose: Through these songs, deities are invoked, and wishes are offered for a happy life for the newlywed couple.
Style: This song falls under the category of 'Samskara songs' (songs associated with life-cycle rituals). In the culture of Uttarakhand, there are specific songs for every ritual—from birth to death—among which 'Mangal' songs are sung during wedding ceremonies (such as Ganesh Puja, Haldi, and Vidai).
Additional Facts:
- Other famous folk songs and folk dances of Uttarakhand:
- Jhumailo: This is primarily sung during the period spanning from Basant Panchami to Baisakhi.
- Chhapeli: This is a love song and dance based on a dialogue between lovers.
- Jagar: This is a special ritualistic song sung to invoke deities or to narrate local heroic sagas.
- Pandav Dance: This is a renowned dance form in the Garhwal region, based on the legends of the Mahabharata.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: Which folk song of Uttarakhand is used to 'invoke deities'?
Answer: Jagar.
Question: 'Choliya' is a famous war dance (sword dance) of which state?
Answer: Uttarakhand (Kumaon region).
Question: Which song is sung by the women of Uttarakhand to commemorate the visit of a married daughter to her parental home?
Answer: Khuded.