Traditional Fagu songs fading away

By Our Correspondent,Jaleshowr, Mar. 20: The traditional Jogira or Fagu songs, traditionally sung during Fagu (Holi) celebrations, are now being played through loudspeakers in rural areas.

As Holi is approaching, Jogira songs have been heard through YouTube and FM radio using the internet.

The lyrics of Jogira, with lines like ‘Kaye Haatke Dhoti Pahira...’ evoke a sense of joy and celebration, infusing villages in Mithilanchal with a festive atmosphere since February. 

However, there's a concern that the younger generation shows less interest in preserving this cultural heritage, as fewer elderly individuals who traditionally sang Jogira are present in the villages.

Sagar Pasman, a youth from Jaleshwor Municipality, laments the shift towards playing Fagu songs exclusively through loudspeakers, highlighting the importance of youth involvement in preserving Jogira and the spirit of Holi.

Professor Manoj Jha from Yajnavalkya Lakshminarayan Vidyapith said that ‘Jogira’, although considered a Holi song, originated from Hindi and signifies collective singing. He expresses concern over the diminishing attention towards Jogira and Fagu songs among the youth and elders alike.

While competitions and public programmes organised by various organisations aim to revive interest in Jogira, the traditional practice of singing these songs house-to-house has faded away. 

Rakesh Rai, a resident of Jaleshwor Municipality, Ward no- 4, suggests that local authorities can play a vital role in preserving Jogira if they prioritise cultural sensitivity. The use of musical instruments like Dholak, Mridanga, Jhayali, and Harmonium are integral to singing Fagu songs.

It is believed that Fagu started in Mithilachal from Basant Panchami, but it is believed that it started formally after Mithila Madhyamiki Parikrama reached Kanchanavan in Mahottari.