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Folk Music of Mithila

📅 December 11, 2025✍️ Mithila Legacy Team

Folk music connects people to God and describes the livelihood of the natives. Mithila's folk music is among the most ancient in the Indian subcontinent, with a history dating back to Nanyadeva (1097–1133) who developed popular ragas.

Songs for Every Occasion

There is a song for every event in life. 'Sohar' is sung at birth, 'Samdaun' at a daughter's farewell (Vidai), and various songs for agricultural activities like sowing and winnowing.

Devotional & Love Songs

Devotional music includes 'Nachari' (songs of Shiva) and 'Bhajan'. Songs of love and beauty, known as 'Tirhuti' or 'Lirhahut', express the innermost feelings of lovers, often depicting the pain of separation and the joy of union.

Modern Era

While deeply traditional, Maithili music is evolving. Legendaries like Sharda Sinha and young talents like Maithili Thakur are taking these folk tunes to the global stage.