Exploring Traditional Bengali Lullabies: 'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo'
Music has a comforting and soothing power that can help infants relax and fall asleep. Lullabies, in particular, are songs of great significance in various cultures. Traditionally, these songs are used to calm a baby and relieve the stress of sleep. In this article, we will explore a historic Bengali lullaby and its cultural background: 'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo'.
A Brief History of 'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo'
'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo' is a beloved lullaby from Bengali culture. It dates back to 1741-51, an era marked by political and economic instability due to the raids by the Bargi group. The Bargi were known for their violent and destructive raids on villages, often looting and punishing the people. This lullaby offers a glimpse into the historical context in which it was created.
Lyrics and Translation
The lullaby is a simple yet touching song that a mother might have composed on the spot, weaving words and phrases from her surroundings to lull her child to sleep. Here are the lyrics and a rough translation:
Lyrical Content
Khoka ghumalo...
Para juralo...
Khoka ghumalo para juralo...
Borgi elo deshe...
Bulbuli-te dhan kheyeche
Khajna debo kishe...
Dhan phuralo pan phuralo
Khajna r upay ki!
Aar kot din shobur koro
Roshun bonechi.
Translation
Dear baby goes to sleep
The neighbourhood is quiet
Dacoits have come to our land
Birds have eaten all the crops
How shall we pay our taxes
You can download this lullaby from below:
Pratima Bandopadhyay - Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo
Banashree Sengupta - Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo Borgi Elo Deshe
Additional Lullabies in Hindi and Bengali
While 'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo' is a historical lullaby from Bengal, other regions of India, particularly Hindi-speaking areas, have their own traditional lullabies. One example is 'Ay ay chad mama', a simple yet tender Bengali lullaby. Here are the lyrics and the meaning:
Ay ay chad mama
Ay ay chad mama
tip diye ja
chader kopale chad
tip diye ja
This lullaby encourages a child to sleep by promising safety and security. It translates to:
Ay ay chad mama
tip diye ja
under the shelter of the bed, rest
tip diye ja
Conclusion
The cultural significance of lullabies cannot be overstated. They offer a window into the history, customs, and emotions of a community. 'Khoka Ghumalo Para Juralo' and 'Ay ay chad mama' are prime examples of such cultural expressions. If you're interested in exploring more traditional Bengali lullabies or Hindi lullabies, the links provided below are a great starting point.
More Bengali Lullabies
More Hindi Lullabies