Friday, October 7, 2011

Himachali music


The true essence of Himachal Himalaya can be derived out from spectacular landscape, people and its rich culture. Having remained topographically isolated for ages, these lofty mountains and deep valleys nurtured the music in harmony to its beauty.

The life in mountainous regions has been regarded tough, especially northern part of the state remained almost unrecognized to the rest of world till the end of this century.

Music which echoes in the deep valleys here describes devotion of devotee to Lord Shiva, Goddess Kali, numerous local deities, and natural magnificence. Love tales creates a soulful aura and unfurls the strong relationship of human emotions and his strong relationship with nature.

The music of Himachal Pradesh includes many kinds of folk songs from the area, many of which are sung without a accompaniment.

Jhoori is a type of song that celebrates extramarital romance. It is popular in Mahasu and Sirmaur, and is accompanied by a female dancer.

Samskara songs are sung a festival and celebrations by women from some of the higher castes. These songs are based on ragas, comprising of compositions of Indian classical music.

Ainchaliyan are religious songs, sung at the bride’s house after a wedding and at the home of an unmarried girl. In Chamba-Pangi, wandering musicians plays a khanjari (tambourine) and perform too.

Himachal music also features a white variety of drums, including dammama, gajju, doru, nagara, Chambi dhol, Dholki and dafli.

The wind instruments include Shehnai, karnal, rana singha and flute.