In a surprising turn of events, Jamal Kudu from the movie Animal has skyrocketed to overnight fame, leaving many perplexed about its initial meaning. Despite Bobby Deol’s striking entry being a topic of discussion, the song’s widespread popularity can be attributed to its infectious foot-tapping catchiness and folksy tune. Remarkably, Jamal Kudu is a revamped rendition of a traditional Iranian folk song commonly sung at weddings.
This phenomenon of folk music making waves in Bollywood is not new. The Bengali song Gole Male, recreated for Genelia Deshmukh and Manav Kaul’s web series Trial Period, and Baari Barsi, a Punjabi folk song used as background score in Shahid Kapoor’s Bloody Daddy, are recent examples of folk tunes leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
The significance of folk music in Bollywood has deep roots, with legendary composers such as SD Burman, RD Burman, and Salil Chowdhury incorporating traditional tunes from East and Northeast India prominently in film scores. Bhangra tunes have also contributed to some of Hindi cinema’s biggest hits. Shantanu Moitra, known for integrating folk elements into his music for films like October, emphasizes the integral role of music in our lives, drawing inspiration from his experiences cycling down the Ganga.
Folk music’s versatility is evident in its ability to reflect various aspects of culture and tradition. Kailash Kher notes that folk songs cover a wide range of situations, from agricultural activities to celebrations of nature and festivals. He observes a positive shift in the recognition of folk artists in India, across various platforms like films, television, and OTT.
Amit Trivedi, known for his eclectic compositions, shares his journey of exploring folk music, influenced by the rich Gujarati folk tradition at home. He highlights the importance of aligning his compositions with the script and setting of the story, as seen in movies like Udta Punjab, Lootera, and Kai Po Che.
Sachin-Jigar, appreciating the treasure trove of folk music left by ancestors, express gratitude for the freedom to use folk without commercializing it, thanks to OTT platforms. Their experience recording the song Ada Sai for Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo involved traveling to Kutch and collaborating with folk artists, showcasing the diverse range of folk instruments employed in the process.
Overall, the resurgence of folk music in Bollywood, coupled with changing attitudes and increased respect for folk artists, reflects a broader shift in the industry’s appreciation for cultural diversity and traditional musical expressions.
