{"product_id":"songs-of-the-baul-and-shaybal-roy-9798303507555","title":"Songs of the Baul and Fakir: Religious Views and Musical Traditions of Bengal","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis book explores the rich spiritual and musical traditions of the \u003cb\u003eBaul and Fakir communities of Bengal\u003c\/b\u003e, two closely related mystical sects renowned for their soulful songs and unique worldview. Rooted in a syncretic mix of Hindu, Islamic, and folk traditions, the Bauls and Fakirs challenge orthodox religious practices and emphasize inner devotion, love, and unity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe book delves into their \u003cb\u003ereligious philosophy\u003c\/b\u003e, which focuses on finding the \"Moner Manush\" (the man of the heart) and achieving divine connection through self-realization and the celebration of human life. It highlights their belief in a formless God, rejecting institutionalized religion and caste divisions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cb\u003emusical traditions\u003c\/b\u003e of the Bauls and Fakirs form the soul of their spiritual practices. Using simple instruments like the \u003cb\u003eektara\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003edotara\u003c\/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003ekhamak\u003c\/b\u003e, their songs express profound metaphysical truths in the form of simple, accessible folk poetry. These songs are deeply personal yet universal, addressing themes of love, longing, and the journey toward spiritual liberation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThrough a mix of historical analysis and lyrical interpretations, the book brings to light the enduring relevance of the Baul and Fakir traditions in modern Bengal and beyond. It provides readers with an understanding of their practices, rituals, and the broader cultural and philosophical significance of their songs.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eAuthor:\u003c\/b\u003e Shaybal Roy\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eISBN-13:\u003c\/b\u003e 9798303507555\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/b\u003e Independently Published\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eLanguage:\u003c\/b\u003e English\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePublished:\u003c\/b\u003e 01\/29\/2025\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003ePages:\u003c\/b\u003e 162\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eFormat:\u003c\/b\u003e Paperback\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eWeight:\u003c\/b\u003e 0.50lbs\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eSize:\u003c\/b\u003e 9.00h x 6.00w x 0.35d","brand":"Shaybal Roy","offers":[{"title":"Paperback","offer_id":48066477949183,"sku":"9798303507555","price":8.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0662\/2982\/9887\/files\/img_b9a00244-0cb1-4a8f-a749-aed9511f6e66.jpg?v=1768678684","url":"https:\/\/www.whiterainbookhouse.com\/products\/songs-of-the-baul-and-shaybal-roy-9798303507555","provider":"WR Book House","version":"1.0","type":"link"}