REFLECTION OF THE RĀMĀYANA IN THE MARRIAGE SONGS OF ASSAM, BENGAL, AND ORISSA: UNVEILING CULTURAL CONNECTIONS AND RELIGIOUS CONTINUITY

Abstract: This research article explores the intricate relationship between the ancient Indian epic, the Rāmāyana, and the traditional marriage songs of Assam, Bengal, and Orissa. By examining the lyrical content, musical elements, and cultural context, the study seeks to shed light on how the Rāmāyana's enduring legacy is preserved and celebrated through these folk songs. The investigation intends to underscore the significant influence of religious and cultural continuities in shaping the rich tapestry of the region's musical heritage. Introduction: The Rāmāyana, a seminal Hindu epic, has profoundly impacted South Asian literature, art, and cultural traditions for centuries. In this study, we delve into the fascinating interplay between the Rāmāyana and the marriage songs of Assam, Bengal, and Orissa, regions known for their vibrant folk traditions. By tracing the threads of religious and cultural influence, we aim to deepen our understanding of how the Rāmāyana has found a resonant voice in these communities, transforming the epic into an integral part of their marriage celebrations. Methodology: To conduct this research, an interdisciplinary approach was adopted, combining ethnographic fieldwork, textual analysis, and musicological perspectives. By employing qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews and participatory observations, we engaged with local communities, folk singers, and experts to gain valuable insights into the subject matter. Results: The findings of this study reveal a multifaceted reflection of the Rāmāyana across the marriage songs of Assam, Bengal, and Orissa. Within these folk songs, elements such as lyrical references, character portrayals, and narrative motifs emerge, emphasizing the deep-rooted cultural and religious connections between the epic and these regional traditions. Moreover, musical structures, melodic patterns, and rhythmic nuances demonstrate an aesthetic integration of the Rāmāyana's essence, enriching the heritage of marriage songs in these regions. Discussion: The incorporation of the Rāmāyana within the marriage songs of Assam, Bengal, and Orissa can be attributed to the wider socio-historical context of the region. The epic's didactic and moral teachings seamlessly blend with the festivities, reinforcing cultural values, religious symbolism, and communal harmony. Additionally, this profound influence ensures the Rāmāyana's preservation and vitality, ensuring its transmission across generations while reinforcing regional identity. The epic tradition in India serves as a prominent embodiment of Indian cultural ideals, effectively incorporating folk culture within its framework. India is a nation characterised by its diverse array of communities, languages, and cultural populations. Despite the multitude of differences, there exists a fundamental cultural cohesion. The consolidation of this oneness is thoroughly established ...........摘要：本研究探讨古印度史诗《罗摩衍那》（Rāmāyana）与阿萨姆（Assam）、孟加拉（Bengal）、奥里萨（Orissa）三地传统婚歌之间的复杂关联。本研究通过分析歌词内容、音乐元素与文化语境，旨在阐明《罗摩衍那》的持久遗产如何通过这些民间歌曲得以传承与弘扬。本调查旨在强调宗教与文化延续性对塑造该地区丰富多元的音乐遗产脉络所产生的重要影响。 引言：作为印度教核心史诗，《罗摩衍那》数百年来对南亚文学、艺术与文化传统产生了深远影响。本研究深入剖析《罗摩衍那》与阿萨姆、孟加拉、奥里萨三地传统婚歌之间的精妙互动——这些地区素来以蓬勃活跃的民间传统著称。通过追溯宗教与文化影响的脉络，我们旨在深化对《罗摩衍那》如何在这些社群中深入人心的理解，将这部史诗转化为当地婚典庆祝活动中不可或缺的组成部分。 研究方法：本研究采用跨学科研究路径，融合民族志田野调查、文本分析与音乐学视角。研究运用半结构化访谈、参与式观察等质性研究方法，与当地社群、民间歌手及专家展开互动，以获取关于该主题的宝贵洞见。 研究结果：本研究的发现表明，《罗摩衍那》在阿萨姆、孟加拉、奥里萨三地的婚歌中得到了多维度的体现。这些民间歌曲中出现了歌词引用、人物塑造与叙事母题等元素，凸显了这部史诗与这些地域传统之间根深蒂固的文化与宗教联系。此外，音乐结构、旋律形态与节奏细节展现出对《罗摩衍那》精髓的美学融合，丰富了该地区婚歌的文化遗产内涵。 讨论：将《罗摩衍那》融入阿萨姆、孟加拉、奥里萨三地的婚歌之中，可归因于该地区更广泛的社会历史语境。这部史诗的说教与道德教义与节庆活动无缝融合，强化了文化价值观、宗教象征意义与社群和谐。此外，这种深远影响保障了《罗摩衍那》的传承与活力，使其得以代际相传，同时强化了地域身份认同。 印度的史诗传统是印度文化理想的突出体现，有效将民间文化纳入其体系之中。印度是一个拥有多元社群、语言与文化群体的国家。尽管存在诸多差异，但其内在始终存在根本的文化凝聚力。这种文化统一性的巩固已然得到了充分的印证……