Music Education in Baul Communities in Bangladesh

Abstract

The Bauls are itinerant minstrels and spiritualists primarily residing in the rural and occasionally urban areas of Bangladesh. Their spirituality, termed Baul shadhana , involves a belief system and a non-consumerist lifestyle, which is passed down through a tradition of guru-disciple education. Spiritual teachings in the Baul tradition are conveyed through songs and performances. A Baul guru acts as the teacher of their philosophy, and anyone can become a disciple in the guru's shadhon-ghar , or spiritual school. This chapter delves into the role of non-consumerism, meditation, and wellbeing in the music education transmitted within Baul communities. It examines how the teachings on non-consumerism address psychoanalytical concepts such as collective illusion, reference points, and hedonic adaptation. Baul gurus instruct their disciples on the pitfalls of materialistic and capitalist lifestyles, the detrimental practice of comparison among individuals, and the diminishing value of assets and goals after their attainment. The chapter also explores the meditation practices integral to Baul music education, highlighting the importance of a nature-centric life. Baul gurus teach various types of meditation music, predominantly practised in natural settings like forests and grassy fields. These meditations aim to help disciples connect with the soul of Mother Nature, deconstruct anthropocentric thinking, and foster a nature-centred livelihood and wellbeing. Gurus emphasise that true wellbeing, according to Baul philosophy, is achieved when an individual understands the significance of all human relationships.