Baul

/baʊl/ noun

Definition

A type of Bengali folk song or musical tradition featuring devotional or romantic themes performed by wandering minstrels.

Etymology

From Bengali बाउल (bāul), of uncertain origin, possibly related to Sanskrit भवन (bhavan, dwelling) or Proto-Dravidian roots. The term emerged in medieval Bengal and came to represent a specific genre of mystical folk music.

Kelly Says

Baul singers historically rejected caste and orthodox religion, making their music a form of spiritual rebellion—today UNESCO recognizes Baul songs as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity!

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