Roots of Phaag Music
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands recently hosted a special festival dedicated to Phaag, a distinctive form of folk music that found its home in the archipelago
well before the 20th century. This traditional art is deeply intertwined with the festive atmosphere spanning from Vasant Panchami to Holi, marking a significant period of cultural celebration. Director of Tourism, Vinayak Chamadia, highlighted the islands as a microcosm of India, where diverse cultures flourish, and the administration is committed to nurturing and showcasing these traditions. The festival served as a crucial platform to honor and promote the authentic Phaag traditions and melodies that have existed on the islands since pre-independence times, drawing a considerable audience of locals and tourists alike eager to witness this rich heritage.
Reviving a Fading Legacy
Organizers emphasized the critical mission behind the Phaag festival: the revival and preservation of a rare folk tradition that is unfortunately on the decline. Rohit Mohan Lal, the general secretary of the co-organizing Kalapani Phaag Mandali, articulated this goal, stating their aim is to offer both island residents and visitors an authentic and immersive experience into the living cultural legacy of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He reiterated that Phaag, which arrived on the islands prior to 1900, has historically been a cornerstone of community celebrations, reflecting the vibrant social and cultural fabric of the region. The festival aims to ensure that these ancient songs, which narrate epic tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Krishna Leela, continue to resonate for generations to come, thanks to dedicated efforts like those of 80-year-old Ratan Bihari Lal, a veteran Phaag singer mentoring younger generations.
