Bundelkhand’s Folk Power: Women Leading the Revival of Rai  

The state of Uttar Pradesh, in northern India, is rich in folklore, tribal traditions, and diverse cultural groups. Among its many vibrant communities, the Kol-Bediya community of Bundelkhand stands out for its unique socio-cultural practices, particularly their celebration of women. This community cherishes their women through cultural traditions like Rai, a dance form embedded in its heritage. Mahua been jaay re Bhaiya yar Mahua been jaay re Bhaiya yar… Lag gaya chinguriya men faans re Mahua been jaay re  (Mahua I gather, O brother, my friend, Mahua I gather, again and again… A thorn pricks deep in my weary feet, Yet mahua I gather, the fragrance is sweet.) Shyama Kol sings this verse from the Rai folk tradition of Bundelkhand,