Himachal Pradesh Music
Himachal Pradesh has a culture that is quite distinct from the rest of the country. This mountainous area thrives in folk songs and its inhabitants never seem to loose an opportunity to revel in some melodious traditional music! Most of the songs are sung with musical instruments, though these songs not necessarily need an accompaniment. There are numerous kids of traditional folk songs of Himachal and many of them are sung on special occasions. Be it a child birth, marriage, anniversary, birthday, etc. the people of Himachal Pradesh always grace the occasion with their traditional music.
Jhoori
Jhoori is a popular form of traditional music in Himachal Pradesh. This type of song is sung in regard to extra marital relations. The songs are usually accompanied by a dance known by the name of "Jhoomar", which is performed by a woman.
Samskara
Samskara are folk songs that are sung by women of higher castes during the celebration of major festivals. The songs are composed on the basis of the ragas of Indian classical music, which makes it absolutely melodious and a treat for music lovers.
Ainchaliyan
Ainchaliyan are basically religious songs that are sung at the house of a newly wed bride or an unmarried girl who is about to get married.
Himachal Pradesh is the land with eternal beauty. The snow kissed mountains, the alpine green look, the breath taking landscapes and the rejuvenating climate is well supported by soulful folk music, which completes the pleasure package. The heart warming folk songs are enriched by the wonderful traditional Musical Instruments. Some of the fine Musical Instruments of Himachal Pradesh are:
Gajju
Dhol
Algoja
Dhaunsa
Dholku
Tamaka
Most of these Musical Instruments are drums and other form of percussion instruments. They are used for different purposes like in Pujas, weddings, announcements etc. The Musical Instruments of Himachal Pradesh generally belong to some specific regions of the land. The Dhol, for an instance is commonly used in the Kulu region. The tribes of the region gather with the irresistible sound of the Dhols to enjoy themselves with ecstatic songs and dances. Among the generally found drums of the state, the Dhaunsa is the largest one. A Dhaunsa has to be played in a standing position and the player plays the drum with all his might to make a heavy sound. Dhaunsa is commonly used to make public announcements. The Algoja is an exceptional instruments, which is actually a twin flutes. Tamaka is another large drum, which is played in fairs and festivals to entertain people. It is played to signalize the beginning or end of the fair.