Garhwal Ka Beda Samaj: Ek Adhyan Released at IGNCA
Uttarakhand is the Land of Diversity: Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, Former CM, Uttarakhand
15th December, New Delhi:
Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Tirath Singh Rawat, marked a significant cultural moment at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) by releasing the scholarly work titled ‘Garhwal Ka Beda Samaj: Ek Adhyan.’ This book has been published under the first phase of the research project of the Janapada Samapda Division of IGNCA on the culture of Uttarakhand. Professor K. Anil Kumar, the Head of the Janapada Samapda Division, commenced proceedings with a warm welcome address. On this occasion, Dr. Ramakar Pant, Head of the Department of ‘Aadi Drishya’ Division of IGNCA, Mr. Manoj Chandola, author of the book and many senior journalists and intellectuals of Uttarakhand were also present. The programme was enriched with a screening of a captivating documentary film, a collaborative effort between IGNGA and ‘Himadri Productions,’ shedding light on the vibrant Beda community of Garhwal. This event epitomized a convergence of scholarly research, cultural celebration, and visual storytelling, marking a momentous tribute to Uttarakhand’s heritage at the IGNCA auditorium.
The Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts specializes in Indian culture and art. Its Janapada Sampada Division has long focused on researching and documenting regional traditions and the vibrant lifestyles of people. Uttarakhand’s social fabric has shifted significantly due to global changes, impacting its folk culture as migration and urbanization alter rural life. As customs fade in the rush of modernity, there’s a pressing need to safeguard regional traditions like the Beda community and folk traditions a mission IGNCA has pursued tirelessly.
Former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Shri Tirath Singh Rawat emphasized Uttarakhand’s rich diversity during the book release event, noting, “India is a country of diversity, but it’s our own country. Similarly, Uttarakhand embodies diverse landscapes, cultures, and food habits, forming our unique lifestyle.” There is diversity in geographical conditions and the way of life is different but the culture here is one. He lamented the fading of traditions due to migration but highlighted a growing awareness, citing PM Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ slogan. Shri Rawat urged a return to cultural roots, stressing, “Our identity is tied to our culture.” He emphasized the need to revive the culture of communities like Beda and emphasized IGNCA’s role in preserving folklore, traditions, and heritage for a sustainable cultural revival.
Mr. Manoj Chandola, the author of the book ‘Garhwal’s Beda Samaj: Ek Adhyan,’ highlighted the collaborative effort between ‘Himadri Productions’ and the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi, in studying the ‘Beda Samaj,’ the Aadi Gayaks of Garhwal. This study aims to grasp the Beda society’s role in shaping the music and folk forms within Garhwal. This study proved not only fascinating but also provided fresh insights into preserving and promoting folk genres. Across various regions of Garhwal, it became evident that the traditional custodians of music, the Beda Samaj, are now encountering novel challenges despite their historical legacy. This society, venerating Lord Shankar as its artistic mentor, possesses distinctive characteristics. Across historical, cultural, and contemporary epochs, they have made significant contributions. The expansive realm of the Beda community in Garhwal boasts a remarkably rich tradition of songs and music. Preserving regional genres faces a formidable challenge in the evolving global order and increasing globalization. The influence of market forces has impacted societies like Beda, necessitating protection at both governmental and non-governmental levels. It is concerning that a society known for its songs promoting others’ welfare is at risk of detachment from the societal mainstream. Hence, efforts must be made to safeguard the songs of this society and folk genres like ‘Laang,’ ‘Swang,’ and ‘Bedavart’ in various forms, ensuring their preservation.
Earlier at the event during his welcome address, Prof. Anil Kumar elaborated on IGNCA’s programmes dedicated to Uttarakhand’s culture. He highlighted the ongoing documentation of Uttarakhand’s living heritage, specifically focusing on the songs, music, dance, and folk genres of the authentic Beda community singers residing across five districts of Garhwal: Pauri, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, Tehri, and Uttarkashi. Mrs. Lakshmi Rawat from the Janapada Sampada Division anchored the event and extended a formal vote of thanks and gratitude to the guests and attendees.
