(Recap: Vani went to Megh’s house and have lunch together with his family. There they discussed about one traditional dish “Chicken Dak Bungalow” while consuming the same.)

(Vani’s phone is ringing. Megh calls her)

Vani: Yes! Megh. Tell me.

Megh: Vani! I got two tickets for a concert.

Vani: Ok! But for which concert?

Megh: Oh! I know you will like it.

Vani: Then tell me about it.

Megh: No, no it is a surprise.

Vani: (while making a curious face) well, when and where it is, may I know!

Megh: All the details I will share you in message, check your inbox.

Vani: Fine!

Megh: Ok, bye!

Vani: (Making mockery of him) Hmm Bye!

(Megh sends the details of the concert in text message)

Vani: (Replied Ok!) Mom, I will attend a music concert on tomorrow evening.

Mother: Ok! But who has invited you?

Vani: Megh

Mother: Which type of concert?

Vani: That’s a surprise mom.

Mother: Ask him to come home this evening, I am preparing samosa. He loves that.

Vani: Ok (while calling Megh). Megh come to our house at about 5pm, mom invites you for her special samosa with ginger tea.

Megh: Wow! That’s great; I will come.

(In the afternoon time)

Mother: Vani, call Megh, where is he! My samosas are ready.

(Vani calls Megh, but Megh cuts the call, Bell rings)

Vani: Megh did not pick up my phone mom.

Mother: Cause he is at the door, go and open the door.

Vani: Oh! Ok! (making an annoying face opens the door)

Megh: What happened? Why are you making face?

Mother: As you cut her phone (with laughter). Megh try the samosa, and tell me is it properly cooked or not.

Megh: Aunty (while having samosa) you are the best cook of the world. This is too yummy.

Mother: So kind of you (while making a happy face)! I came to know that both of you will attend a concert! So which concert it is, Megh?

Megh: Aunty a Baul concert.

Mother: Wow that’s great!

Vani: Oh! when I asked you said nothing now samosa influenced your decision right (while making an angry face)?

Megh: Aunty, see how she is so rude to me?

Mother: Don’t fight with Megh, Vani. You are not a kid.

Megh: (while smiling and eating samosa) so true, so true.

Vani: Today is your day. By the way mom knows a lot about Baul.

Megh: Is it, aunty? Then please tell us.

Mother: Well, once upon a time, in the villages of Bengal, lived a group of wandering musicians known as the Bauls. With origins dating back to the 16th century, these mystical minstrels roamed the countryside, carrying with them the rich tradition of Baul music and philosophy. 

Vani: The Bauls are known for their simple yet profound musical compositions, typically accompanied by instruments like the ektara and dotara. Their songs, passed down through generations, speak of love, longing, and the search for divine truth.

Megh: Hmm, I know that you will like it (while making a jovial face).

Vani: Yeah, Baul music is one of my favourite folk music genre. One such iconic Baul song is “Manush Manusher Jonno” (“Humans Are for Humanity”), composed by the legendary Baul artist Lalon Fakir. This song encapsulates the essence of Baul philosophy, emphasizing the unity of all humanity and the importance of love and compassion.

Megh: So how about the Bauls in modern days?

Mother: In the modern era, one Baul artist who has made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Baul music is Purnadas Baul. Born in West Bengal, India, Purnadas Baul has dedicated his life to sharing the wisdom of the Baul tradition with the world.

Megh: Yes aunty! His name was also there in the concert pass. Tell me more on this please.

Mother: Purnadas Baul’s music reflects the essence of Baul philosophy, blending traditional melodies with contemporary influences. His soul-stirring performances have earned him acclaim both in India and abroad, with his music transcending cultural boundaries and touching the hearts of listeners worldwide.

Vani: In addition to his musical endeavors, Purnadas Baul is also actively involved in teaching and mentoring young Baul musicians. Through workshops, seminars, and cultural events, he imparts the teachings of the Baul tradition to future generations, ensuring that this rich heritage continues to thrive. One of Purnadas Baul’s most notable contributions is his collaboration with international artists and musicians. By collaborating with artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, he has helped to introduce Baul music to new audiences and fostered cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.

Mother: Apart from that, today, the legacy of the Bauls continues to inspire artists, scholars, and spiritual seekers around the world. Their music has gained international recognition, with artists like Paban Das Baul and Parvathy Baul performing at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide.

Megh: Great! People should know more about this kind of folk culture (while making a mesmerising face).

Mother: In a rapidly changing world, the Bauls remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and sharing their timeless wisdom with future generations. Through their songs and teachings, they remind us of the universal truths that unite all humanity: love, compassion, and the eternal quest for spiritual enlightenment.

Vani: So true. Then our concert plan is confirmed for tomorrow evening (while making a happy face).