Haryana is a state of India that lies in the northern region. The state has a rich and diverse musical culture that reflects the rural, agricultural, and martial background of the people. The folk music of Haryana is mainly based on folk songs that are sung with or without musical instruments. Some of the most popular folk music forms of Haryana.
Ragini
It is a form of music that originated in the Rohtak district. It is performed by a group of singers who narrate folk stories, legends, myths, and historical events related to the local heroes, gods, and goddesses. Ragini songs are based on ragas, which are compositions of Indian classical music, but they have nothing in common with the classical traditions of Raga-Ragini system. Ragini is performed at fairs, festivals, or competitions called Ragini Sammelans12.
Gharwa Gayan
It is a form of music that originated in the Bhiwani district. It is performed by a group of singers who sing devotional songs in praise of Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. Gharwa Gayan songs are based on simple tunes sung to the accompaniment of Khartal (clappers), Dholak (drum), Sarangi (bowed lute), Dhol (drum), and Harmonium (keyboard). Gharwa Gayan is performed at temples, shrines, or homes during religious occasions23.
Jhoolana
It is a form of music that originated in the Mahendragarh district. It is performed by a group of singers who sing love songs or ballads related to the romance of Radha and Krishna, or other folk couples. Jhoolana songs are based on classical ragas and talas (rhythms), and are accompanied by instruments like Bansuri (flute), Ektara (one-stringed lute), Dholak (drum), and Manjira (cymbals). Jhoolana is performed at weddings or other festive occasions23.
Patka
It is a form of music that originated in the Hisar district. It is performed by a group of singers who sing humorous songs or satires related to the social issues, customs, or personalities. Patka songs are based on folk tunes sung to the accompaniment of Dholak (drum), Chimta (tongs), Manjira (cymbals), and Harmonium (keyboard). Patka is performed at fairs, festivals, or gatherings for entertainment23.
Rasia
It is a form of music that originated in the Karnal district. It is performed by a group of singers who sing songs related to the festival of Holi, which celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. Rasia songs are based on folk tunes sung to the accompaniment of Dholak (drum), Nagara (kettle drum), Jhanjh (large cymbals), and Shehnai (oboe). Rasia is performed at Holi celebrations or other festive occasions23.
Conclusion
Apart from these folk music forms, there are many others that are specific to certain castes, communities, regions or occasions in Haryana. Some examples are Jhanjhoti (martial songs), Barahmasa (songs for twelve months), Lullaby (songs for children), Bhajan (devotional songs), Ghazal (lyrical poetry), Thumri (semi-classical music), etc12. These folk music forms reflect the diversity and richness of Haryana’s musical culture.