In the early 1950s, when the country was moving steadily towards development, a few things were unknowingly left behind. People who could manage with the constantly evolving aspects of the nation, moved ahead with great paee. Subsequently, the culture and traditions started stepping down the priority list. Komal Kothari ji, a patron of Rajasthan’s folk culture took up the task reviving the withering melodies of the state.
Aathun – The concept that brought us closer to Rajasthani Folk Music
Komal Kothari was born on 4th March, 1929 in Jodhpur. He spent his days of education in Udaipur where developed an immense love for music. Komal Kothari clearly reflected the patrimony of folk music through his thoughts. From 1800 to 1942, Kothari family gave birth to numerous patriotic songs that infused nationalistic views among the citizens. In the same fashion, Komal da carried forward the legacy of the Rajasthan’s fol culture and equally of India.
Every region thrives on the extent of its traditions. The folk culture that inspired many generations was sadly on decline. Komal Kothari took a leap of faith in this vivid world to uphold the folk culture of Rajasthan.
Prodigious Initiatives By Komal Kothari JI
In 1953, Vijaydhan Detha, Komal da started a magazine called ‘Prerna’. (literal translation – Inspiration). With the view of discovering and recording a new folk song each month, these two individuals became the immortal faces of Rajasthans’s folk culture! Their remarkable initiative captured the hearts of music lovers from all over the country.
Later in 1964, Komal Kothari played a major role in founding the Rupayan Sansthan. Komal Kothari carried out the herculean task of compiling all the folklores and classical music of many rural artist communities. This provided a firm foundation for the growth and popularity of Rajasthani folk artists.
The Giant Stride of Manganiyar Community
Under the patronage of Komal da, the Manganiyar community – flag bearers of Rajasthani folk culture gained much fame. The dying culture found a national and international platform due to the painstaking efforts of Komal da. In 1967, in collaboration with Deben Bhattacharya, a musicologist, Komal da took the Manganiyar folk performances to Sweden! Moreover, as an ethnomusicologist, Komal da visited rural communities of Rajasthan to understand their sacred culture. As a matter of fact, Komal Kothari ji struggled to preserve the folk culture of Rajasthan for 40 years.
Know more about the Manganiyar Community of Rajasthan.
Komal da was honoured by the Government of India in 1963 with Padma Shri Award and later in 2004 with Padma Bhushan Award for his relentless work towards upliftment of rural artist communities. The Government of Rajasthan also conferred the title of Rajasthan Ratan upon him.
Komal Kothari ji strived to protect, preserve and uplift the culture of Rajasthan. Furthermore, Komal Ji’s futuristic vision became a boon for the state. For instance, to boost the tourist footfall, he initiated the foundation of Arna Jharna – the Desert Museum of Rajasthan. One can unfold the nomadic experiences and enjoy the blissful musical performances.
Komal Kothari took the Rajasthani folk culture to its new heights. It is because of his selfless deeds, the culture breathes freshness even in the dynamics of the 21st century!
