Question

Which one of the following folk literature cum musical form is from the state of Assam?

• A. Alna
• B. Baul
• C. Bihu
• D. Garba

Hint:

Bihu is the primary cultural festival of Assam, celebrated three times a year to mark different stages of the agricultural cycle: seeding (Bohag Bihu), crop protection (Kati Bihu), and harvesting (Magh Bihu).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Folk literature and traditional musical forms are important cultural assets used in development communication and agricultural extension to share messages with rural communities in a culturally acceptable and engaging format.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us examine the regional origins of the folk and musical forms listed in the options:
- Alna (A): A traditional narrative or poetic form found in parts of western India, particularly Rajasthan.
- Baul (B): A distinct group of mystic minstrels and a folk music tradition from Bengal (including West Bengal and Bangladesh), known for its spiritual philosophy and simple instruments.
- Bihu (C): The signature folk dance, music, and literary festival of Assam.
Bihu music is characterized by energetic rhythms, traditional instruments like the dhol, pepa (hornpipe), and taal, and lyrics that depict nature, agriculture, love, and daily rural life.
The Bihu songs (Bihu geet) serve as a rich source of oral folk literature in Assamese culture.
- Garba (D): A traditional energetic folk dance and music form originating from the state of Gujarat, performed primarily during the Navratri festival.
Because Bihu is the traditional folk performance and musical heritage of Assam, option C is correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The folk literature and musical form originating from Assam is Bihu.