14 Enchanting Folk Songs of India for 2023 That Vividly Depict Indian Culture

Music advanced as the sound of festivity that people used to pass on and express their feelings and satisfaction in creating developments. It was a method for amusement as well, utilized by individuals when they were labouring with nature, in ranches and families, just as when they were content, cheerful and euphoric. 

What are Folk Songs?

Folk songs are traditional songs that are passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition. They reflect the cultural heritage, values, and beliefs of the people of a region or a community. Folk songs are often characterized by simple melodies, repetitive structures, and lyrics that are easy to remember and sing along to.

Folk songs cover a wide range of themes, including love, nature, history, religion, social issues, and everyday life. They are usually performed by local musicians or singers, and the performances are often accompanied by traditional instruments.

Folk songs can be found in various parts of the world, and each region or community has its unique style and flavour. They are an important part of the cultural identity of a community and play an essential role in preserving the cultural heritage of a region.

In many cases, folk songs have been adapted and transformed over time, and they continue to evolve with changing times and contexts. Folk songs have inspired many popular music genres, and their influence can be seen in various forms of modern music.

Type of Folk Songs of India

Folk songs of India can be classified into various types based on region, language, and themes. Here are some of the popular types of folk songs in India:

Baul songs – West Bengal

Lavani songs – Maharashtra

Bhangra songs – Punjab

Rajasthani folk music – Rajasthan

Garba songs – Gujarat

Bihu songs – Assam

Koli songs – Maharashtra and Gujarat

Kirtan – Bengal, Odisha, and Assam

Dandiya Raas – Gujarat and Rajasthan

Pahadi songs – Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh

Ghazals – Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan

Qawwali – Uttar Pradesh and Hyderabad

Thumri – Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

Bhatiali – Bengal and Assam

Jhumur songs – West Bengal and Jharkhand

These are just a few examples, and there are many more types of folk songs in India. Folk songs are an essential part of the country’s cultural heritage and provide a window into the lives, traditions, and values of the people of India.

List of Best Folk Songs in India

Here are the best folk songs of Bollywood, portraying various mindsets and having their starting point in various pieces of India. As is consistently the situation with Bollywood, these are transformations of the first (if there was one) to the Bollywood style, with words in neighbourhood vernaculars in some cases supplanted by Hindi verses, without settling on energy or style.

Welcome to the folk music of India!

1 – GYPSY (Balam Thanedar)

GYPSY is a popular folk song by Balam Thanedar, a renowned Rajasthani folk singer. The song features traditional Rajasthani musical instruments like dholak, sarangi, and Kartal. The lyrics of the song are in Rajasthani and reflect the region’s culture and traditions.

Balam Thanedar is known for his soulful voice and his ability to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan through his music. He has been awarded numerous accolades for his contributions to Rajasthani folk music and has released several albums featuring his unique style of singing.

Real Music Production presents this beautiful haryanvi song ‘GYPSY’, by GD Kaur featuring beautiful Pranjal Dahiya & Dinesh Golan.

2 – Banni Tharo Chand Sariso Mukhdo

“Banni Tharo Chand Sariso Mukhdo” is a popular Rajasthani folk song that has gained popularity across India and even globally. The song is often performed at weddings, festivals, and other cultural events in Rajasthan.

The song is about a bride, who is described as having a face as bright as the moon and as radiant as mustard flowers. The song goes on to describe her beauty and grace as she is dressed in traditional Rajasthani attire.

The music of the song is upbeat and lively, with a mix of traditional Rajasthani instruments like the dholak, sarangi, and kamayacha. The lyrics of the song are in the local Marwari dialect, which is spoken in Rajasthan.

“Banni Tharo Chand Sariso Mukhdo” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in various Bollywood films and TV shows. The song has become a cultural icon of Rajasthan and continues to be popular among people of all ages.

3- Zingaat

“Zingaat” is a popular song from the 2016 Marathi language film “Sairat.” The music for the song is composed by Ajay-Atul and the lyrics are written by Ajay-Atul and Nagraj Manjule, who also directed the film. The song is known for its energetic beats and catchy lyrics.

After the success of the Marathi version, “Zingaat” was also remade in Hindi for the 2018 Bollywood film “Dhadak,” which was a remake of “Sairat.” The Hindi version of the song features new lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya and was also composed by Ajay-Atul.

The song’s lyrics are in a mix of Marathi and Hindi and describe the feeling of joy and celebration. The music features a mix of traditional Marathi instruments like dhol-tasha, halgi, and Zanj, as well as modern electronic beats.

“Zingaat” has become a popular dance number at parties, weddings, and other events, not just in Maharashtra but across India. The song’s catchy tune and upbeat rhythm have made it a cultural phenomenon, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

4- Jugni Ji

“Jugni Ji” is a popular Punjabi song that has gained international recognition over the years. The song was originally composed by Arif Lohar, a Pakistani folk singer, and was released in 2008. The music for the song is a fusion of traditional Punjabi folk music with modern beats.

The lyrics of “Jugni Ji” describe a female spirit, “Jugni,” who wanders around and is free-spirited. The song talks about the beauty of nature and the emotions of love and freedom. The word “Jugni” is derived from the Punjabi word “Jugnu,” which means firefly.

The song gained widespread popularity after it was remixed by the British music producer, DJ Swami, and released as “Jugni Ji” in 2012. The remix featured additional music and English rap lyrics, and became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries.

“Jugni Ji” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in Bollywood films and TV shows. The song’s catchy tune and fusion of traditional and modern music have made it a popular track across different generations and cultures.

5 – Meri Ri Saas Ke Paanch Putar The

“Meri Ri Saas Ke Paanch Putar The” is a popular Rajasthani folk song that has been passed down through generations. The song is about a mother-in-law who had five sons and loved them dearly.

The lyrics of the song describe the mother-in-law’s love for her sons and how she always took care of them. The song also talks about the five brothers and their bond, as they grew up and eventually got married and had families of their own.

The music for the song is a fusion of traditional Rajasthani folk music with modern beats, and the lyrics are in the local Marwari dialect, which is spoken in Rajasthan.

“Meri Ri Saas Ke Paanch Putar The” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in Rajasthani films and TV shows. The song’s catchy tune and relatable lyrics about family values and relationships have made it a popular track across different generations and cultures in Rajasthan.

6 – 52 GAJ KA DAMAN

“52 Gaj Ka Daman” is a popular Haryanvi folk song that was released in 2021. The song’s music is composed by Rajat Nagpal, and the lyrics are written by Renuka Panwar, a Haryanvi singer.

The lyrics of “52 Gaj Ka Daman” describe the beauty and grace of a woman, specifically focusing on her “52 Gaj Ka Daman,” which refers to the length of her dress. The song talks about the woman’s confidence and how she is the center of attention wherever she goes.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Haryanvi instruments like the dhol and shehnai, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and relatable lyrics have made it a massive hit, especially among young people in Haryana and other parts of North India.

“52 Gaj Ka Daman” has been covered by many artists, and its popularity has led to several dance challenges on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The song has become a cultural phenomenon, and its catchy tune and upbeat rhythm continue to make it a popular track in parties, weddings, and other events.

7 – Wajle Ki Bara

“Wajle Ki Bara” is a popular Marathi folk song that has been a part of Maharashtra’s cultural heritage for many years. The song’s music is composed by Ajay-Atul, and the lyrics are written by Guru Thakur.

The lyrics of “Wajle Ki Bara” describe the beauty of nature and the emotions of love and romance. The song talks about a couple’s love and their desire to be together, with the chorus line “Wajle Ki Bara” meaning “the beat of the drum is on fire.”

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Marathi instruments like the dhol-tasha, halgi, and zanj, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and upbeat rhythm have made it a popular track at weddings, parties, and other events in Maharashtra.

“Wajle Ki Bara” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in Marathi films and TV shows. The song’s fusion of traditional and modern music has made it a cultural phenomenon in Maharashtra, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

8 – Ki Banu Duniya Da

“Ki Banu Duniya Da” is a popular Punjabi folk song that has been recreated by various artists over the years. The song’s music is originally composed by late legendary Punjabi folk musician Ustad Jwala Singh, and the lyrics are written by various Punjabi poets.

The lyrics of “Ki Banu Duniya Da” talk about the beauty and diversity of the world we live in, and how we should cherish and celebrate it. The song celebrates the different cultures, languages, and religions of the world and emphasizes the importance of peace and harmony.

]The music for the song features a mix of traditional Punjabi instruments like the dhol, tumbi, and algoza, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and upbeat rhythm have made it a popular track at Punjabi weddings, parties, and other events.

“Ki Banu Duniya Da” has been covered by many artists, including famous Punjabi singers like Gurdas Maan, Harshdeep Kaur, and Diljit Dosanjh. The song’s fusion of traditional and modern music and its message of peace and harmony have made it a cultural phenomenon in Punjab and other parts of India, and it continues to inspire and entertain people across generations.

9 – Gajban Paani Ne Chali

“Gajban Pani Ne Chali” is a popular Haryanvi folk song that became an internet sensation in 2019-2020. The song is sung by Vishvajeet Choudhary and the lyrics are written by Mukesh Jaji.

The lyrics of “Gajban Pani Ne Chali” talk about a girl named Gajban who goes to fetch water from the well, and how her beauty and grace catch the attention of everyone around her. The song describes the girl’s attire and her charming personality, and how she sets the hearts of young men on fire.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Haryanvi instruments like the dhol, tumbi, and harmonium, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and energetic rhythm have made it a popular track at Haryanvi weddings, parties, and other events.

“Gajban Pani Ne Chali” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in Haryanvi films and TV shows. The song’s fusion of traditional and modern music and its catchy lyrics and tune have made it a cultural phenomenon in Haryana and other parts of North India, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

10 – Apsara Ali

“Apsara Ali” is a popular song from the Bollywood movie “Nasha” (2013). The song is sung by T. J. Rehmi and the lyrics are written by Radhika Anand.

The lyrics of “Apsara Ali” talk about a beautiful woman who is compared to a heavenly nymph (Apsara in Hindi) and her enchanting beauty is praised by the singer. The song is filled with metaphors and praises the woman’s curves, movements, and grace.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Indian instruments like the tabla and harmonium, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and energetic rhythm have made it a popular track at Bollywood parties and other events.

“Apsara Ali” has been choreographed with sensual dance moves, which adds to the song’s popularity. The song’s fusion of traditional and modern music and its catchy lyrics and tune have made it a cultural phenomenon in India, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

11 – Engine Ki Seeti

“Engine Ki Seeti” is a popular song from the Bollywood movie “Khoobsurat” (2014). The song is sung by Sunidhi Chauhan and Resmi Sateesh, and the lyrics are written by Ikram Rajasthani.

The lyrics of “Engine Ki Seeti” talk about a girl’s beauty and the effect it has on the singer. The song is filled with metaphors and praises the girl’s looks, style, and personality. The “Engine Ki Seeti” refers to the sound of a whistle or hooting, and how the girl’s beauty and charm are so attractive that it makes the singer hoot like a train engine.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Rajasthani instruments like the dholak and khartal, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and energetic rhythm have made it a popular track at Bollywood parties and other events.

“Engine Ki Seeti” has been choreographed with fun and quirky dance moves, which adds to the song’s popularity. The song’s fusion of traditional and modern music and its catchy lyrics and tune have made it a cultural phenomenon in India, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

12. Baajre Da Sitta

“Baajre Da Sitta” is a popular Punjabi folk song that originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. The song is sung by various artists and has been passed down through generations in the folk tradition.

The lyrics of “Baajre Da Sitta” talk about the joys of rural life in Punjab, and how the farmers work hard to cultivate the land and produce a good harvest. The song describes the various stages of farming, from sowing the seeds to harvesting the crops, and how the farmers take pride in their work.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Punjabi instruments like the dhol, tumbi, and algoza, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s catchy tune and energetic rhythm have made it a popular track at Punjabi weddings, parties, and other events.

“Baajre Da Sitta” has been covered by many artists and has been featured in Punjabi films and TV shows. The song’s celebration of rural life and its catchy lyrics and tune have made it a cultural phenomenon in Punjab and other parts of North India and Pakistan, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

13. Dilbaro

“Dilbaro” is a popular Hindi song from the Bollywood movie “Raazi” (2018). The song is sung by Harshdeep Kaur, Vibha Saraf, and Shankar Mahadevan, and the lyrics are written by Gulzar.

The lyrics of “Dilbaro” talk about the emotions of a father and daughter during the wedding ceremony. The song describes the daughter leaving her home and moving to her husband’s house, and the father’s emotional farewell to his daughter. The song touches upon themes of separation, loss, and the bittersweet nature of life’s transitions.

The music for the song features a mix of traditional Indian instruments like the harmonium and tabla, as well as modern electronic beats. The song’s soulful melody and emotional lyrics have made it a popular track at weddings and other family gatherings.

“Dilbaro” has been praised for its poignant lyrics and soulful music. The song’s touching portrayal of the father-daughter relationship and its universal themes of love and loss have resonated with audiences in India and around the world, and it continues to be a popular track on music streaming platforms and in DJ playlists.

14. System Pe System

System Pe System is a Haryanvi language song and is sung by R Maan and Ritika Rai. This song was came into trend when famous YouTuber Elvish Yadav was featured in the viral reels & videos by his fans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the folk songs of India represent the vibrant and diverse cultural heritage of the country. These songs have been passed down through generations and provide insight into the daily life, traditions, and beliefs of various communities. From the Ghazal Qawwali Songs of the north to the Baul songs of Bengal and the tribal music of central India, each region has its unique style and lyrics that reflect the local customs and values.

Despite the growing popularity of modern music, folk songs continue to be an integral part of India’s cultural fabric, and efforts are being made to preserve and promote this rich heritage. It is important to recognize the significance of these songs as they not only connect us to our roots but also serve as a means of social commentary and critique. With continued efforts to preserve and promote folk music, we can ensure that future generations also appreciate and celebrate the diverse musical traditions of India.