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baul

baul

9.9
A singer from Bengal who performs spiritual songs and dances
  • noun
  • /bɔːl/
: baul
  • The Baul musicians sang spiritual songs that captivated the audience.
  • Baul-Fakir
  • Baul-Fakirs
  • Baul-Fakir music

Examples

  • During the festival, the local Baul performers shared their unique philosophy through music.

  • Many people visit Bengal to experience the vibrant culture of the Baul minstrels.

  • I begin with a brief discussion of the Baul-Fakir social category.

    Academic text (2016)
  • Thus far, I have addressed several innovations in Baul-Fakir music of recent decades.

    Academic text (2016)
  • Previous scholars have emphasized a narrative of loss when considering recent changes in Baul-Fakir culture.

    Academic text (2016)
  • Nevertheless, Baul Fakir music making has a long history as a means of subsistence.

    Academic text (2016)
  • I have addressed the diversification of Baul-Fakir music that has occurred in response to increased commercial demand and professional competition.

    Academic text (2016)
  • For these reasons, many affluent audiences are interested in the preservation of Baul Fakir music in its traditional forms.

    Academic text (2016)
  • Professional Baul-Fakir musicians perform at a variety of both contracted and non-contracted commercial events.

    Academic text (2016)
  • Lower- and working-class audiences clearly appreciate Baul-Fakir music for both spiritual edification and aesthetic enjoyment.

    Academic text (2016)

Surface Forms

baul singular
bauls plural

Etymology

The word baul names the wandering spiritual singers of Bengal who use simple instruments and strong songs. One common idea is that the name comes from an old Bengali word meaning 'ecstatic' or 'possessed by love', so a baul is easy to remember as someone deeply moved by faith and music.