Folk Song of Nepal-Types and Importance
Introduction
A folk song is a song sung traditionally or in a modified form in a special place or area. These songs have been passed down from one generation to the next. They have their own identity. They give the identity of tradition, special place, caste, religion, etc. Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual country. Many cultures, traditions, religions, castes, and languages are well integrated here.
Folk songs of Nepal are popular among people of all ages, from children to the elderly. They are sung for various occasions and festivals, events, and reties. They are traditional songs that are typical for a particular community in our country. These folk songs are sung in local tunes with or without instruments, and people sing them at weddings, funerals, and other festivities. They are known for their simplicity and beauty in terms of melody, rhythm, and meaning.
Types of the Folk song in Nepal
1. Tamang song
These songs are sung especially in the Tamang caste. Damphu is played in most of the songs. Tamang Selo is one of the most sung and popular songs of Tamang folk songs.
2. Gurung song
Gurung people mostly live in the western part of Nepal. They have a tradition of living or singing Rodhi which is very popular. The music sung or performed at the funeral is also very important in that caste.
3. Kirati song
Kiratis living in the eastern part of the country also have their different types of songs. Dhan Naach, Chandi Naach, Sakela, etc. dances and songs are their major and folk culture.
4. Newari song
Newar and Newari songs are sung in and around Kathmandu Valley. They have their music. Newari folk has special significance in marriage, worship and death rites. Narayan Gopal is said to be the ‘Swor Samrat’ of Nepali song is also belongs to the Newar caste.
5. Magar song
Magar song is also one of the folk songs of Nepal. Kaudda or Sorathi is a popular song or music of the Magar caste.
6. Dohori song
Dohori song is the most sung song in the western region of Nepal. But now it is a very popular song in this country and abroad too. Rhythmic language is often sung as a way of debate between boys and girls. So, it is the major folk song of Nepal.
7. Deuda song
There is a tradition of singing and dancing deuda in the far west of Nepal. This is also the folk music of the country.
8. Bhajan
It is customary to sing these songs for the glory of God. Bhajans are sung during worship in temples and homes.
9. Maithili song
Maithili song is a popular song sung in the Mithila region. Mithila region belongs to both Nepal and India. These songs are also of a unique type in Nepal.
10. Teej song
Teej song is a song sung especially by Nepali women. It is customary to sing these songs on the occasion of Teej. The pain and suffering of women are reflected in these songs.
11.Gandharva song
The Gandharvas have been singing this song. They have been singing such songs from village to village. They have included such things as accident, theft, trafficking in women and violence in their songs. Sarangani is played as a musical instrument.
12.Tharu song
13. Sherpa song
14. Purbeli song
Apart from these, there are many other folk songs in Nepal.