Conference Presentations by sarvar kahlon
This paper studies changes in Suhag aesthetics brought on by the mediation of popular folk singer... more This paper studies changes in Suhag aesthetics brought on by the mediation of popular folk singers and address whether Suhag is a genre of Punjabi folk songs traditionally performed by groups of women as part of the wedding ritual cycle. The word Suhag derives from Suhagan, which means, a married woman. Suhag as a folk genre has roots in rural Punjab. As per custom, women of the bride's family and local community, across age demographics, gather in her to sing traditional songs leading up to and during wedding festivities. Over the years, the practice of these singing sessions has dwindled resulting in Suhags losing prominence, especially in relation to the more festive genres like boliyaan that are typically accompanied by gidda (a robust dance form). Part of the reason is change in marriage practices due to several factors such as urbanization, modernization and the village outward migration of Punjabis. Moreover, advancement in communication technology and women's improving position in Indian society, it may be argued, partially ameliorate the angst of separation experienced by a bride. Suhag passed from the domain of amateur ritual music into that of commercial popular music, and as is often the case, conflicts arise from the juxtaposition of traditional and popular culture. To some extent, Suhag has changed both aesthetically and in terms of original intent and function. On the basis of interviews, available documents, this paper analyzes evident changes, and to some extent, underlying social factors.
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Conference Presentations by sarvar kahlon