The first day of World Sacred Spirit Festival was a short experience
which can be felt with a deep breath rather being told. Listening to the Pabuji Phad in the desert
rock park amidst the backdrop of Mehrangarh fort , gave a feeling of romancing
the starry nights in the backdrop of fort amidst the humming tunes of
Rajasthani folk music.
The Bhopa musicians in their original voice, accentuated each scene of
the phad accompanying the song with a lamp or dance. Musical instruments like
ravanhatta, and manjira emphasised the prominent strings while singing the
prowness of Pabuji. The venue was beautifully lit in candle lights and the
story of Pabuji was narrated on phad (Curtain) in form of pictures depicting
the heroic scenes. Mounted on bamboo sticks, the phad was lit from behind with
candle lights, making it look even more beautiful with reminiscent of
yesteryears. The aura of the place was dim yet very serene as one can just
close the eyes, hearing the music and admire the real beauty and altitude of
Mehrangarh fort glowing in soft, subtle lights under the starry sky. Cold yet pleasant night with no other voice except
the sound of music accompanied by the hissy sound of the forest was an
experience untold.
It is truly said that folk music is best enjoyed at a place girdling the
real essence of the tunes humming into the heart.
