Bharmour kshetra mein prachalit avnadh vadyon ki vadan sheili evam paunmata vadya ki vadan parmpara ka vishesh adhyayan

Abstract

The lifestyle of the people in the Bharmaur region is quite simple, yet the folk songs and instruments here have a distinct charm that reflects the culture of the area. Music seems to be spread all around; it feels as if waves of melody flow through the land and the rivers themselves sing songs in rhythm. Many folk instruments are played in Bharmour, among which the avanaddha vadya (percussion instruments) hold great significance in folk music. Avanaddha vadya are hollow instruments covered with leather, played by striking with hands or an object. The Paunmata instrument is one of the most prominent avanaddha vadya of Bharmour. It is believed to be an ancient instrument, nearly 500 years old. There are two identical instruments, and both are considered as divine maidens. One Paunmata memorial is located in Sanchui village, while the other is in Kakri village of Garola Panchayat. It is believed that when played, this instrument produces the sacred sound Om. The playing of the Paunmata is considered a divine blessing, as it can only be performed by the descendants of a particular family belonging to the Ukaira gotra. newlinePadma Shri awardee Shri Musafir Ram Bhardwaj was the eldest head of this lineage. Not only he, but his entire family has preserved this art to this day. They are regarded as disciples of Lord Shiva and lead the ceremonial Chhari Yatra (holy staff procession) during the Manimahesh pilgrimage, all the way to Dal Lake. The family belonging to the Ukaira clan has been preserving this rare art form for generation. newline newline