Kesar - Essence of Rajasthan
Rajasthan, the land of kings and warriors, a region where every grain of sand, every melody sung, and every color worn tells a story of a rich and vibrant heritage, art forms & traditions.
At the core of this cultural fabric is the symbol of 'kesar’, (saffron) which represents the essence of Rajasthan beyond its role as a color or spice.
The Versatile Symbolism of Kesar
In Rajasthan, kesar is not just a spice, it is a metaphor that resonates deeply within the cultural and traditional fabric of the region. Saffron, with its rich color and aroma, is a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, etc. It mirrors the golden sand dunes of the Thar Desert, reflecting both the arid beauty and the grit of the region.
Kesar is also the color of choice for festive attire. The choice of color is not just about aesthetics, wearing Kesar is a declaration of identity, celebration of folk-tradition, expression of love for the motherland. Men don saffron turbans in Rajasthan.
The Emotional Resonance of Kesariya
The emotional depth of kesar is profoundly captured in the popular Rajasthani song "Kesariya Balam." This song, originating from the Manganiyar community of the Thar Desert, is a beautiful embodiment of the region's spirit. The Manganiyars, known for their vibrant folk music, use traditional instruments like the Dholak drums, the Kamaycha fiddle, and the Khadtal cymbals to bring their stories to life.
"Kesariya Balam" tells the story of longing and love, with kesar symbolizing the beloved. The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman welcoming her lover, who is as precious and auspicious as saffron, into her life. This lover, referred to as "kesariya balam," is not just a romantic figure but a representation of everything sacred and cherished.
In Rajasthan, the experience of longing and separation is deeply ingrained in the social fabric due to the tradition of male migration. For hundred of years, men have left their homes to seek livelihoods as merchants, warriors, herdsmen, or artisans, often leaving behind young wives. This separation, exacerbated by early marriages and long distances, has woven a narrative of enduring love and longing into the region's cultural expressions.
The song "Kesariya Balam" captures this essence perfectly, with its words reflecting the deep emotional bond and the heart-wrenching separation experienced by couples. The woman in the song sees her lover everywhere, even in her chunri (head covering), and feels as if she is eternally bound to him.
The Universality of Kesariya
While the song is deeply personal and tied to the specific cultural practices of Rajasthan, its themes of love, longing, and reunion are universal. The Rajput tradition of wearing saffron-colored turbans ties the song to the storied history and valiant spirit of Rajasthan's warrior class, while the connection to the love story of Dhola-Maru adds a layer of legendary romance.
Here’s the song
Lyrics (Rajasthani)
“Kesariya baalam, aawo ni,
Padhaaro maaro des…
Sraavan aavan kaha gayo,
Kar gayo kol anek,
Ginta ginta ghis gayee,
Maaree aangaliya ri rekh” ,
Kesariya…”
Translation
My love, please come to me…
All those promises that you made,
That you would be back with the rains.
The days go by, and with them the promises,
Counting them… again and again…
I have worn my fingers down to the bone.
The rains have come, my love,
Come to me….
Melodious rendition by JANKEE :
(I have read somewhere that writing is a therapy.)