Chaar Bayt: A Muslim tradition in lyrical oral poetry

Domain:Oral traditions and expressions

State: Rajasthan

Description:

Chaar Bayt are a four line sequence of verses sung to the beat of the 'duff' (a percussion instrument). It is performed in States of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that Chaar Bayt originated from an Arab poetic form called Rajeez and its origin can be traced back to the 7th century. These songs were sung by the soldiers. In the war camps they would sing songs in the evenings to instill valour and courage in their ranks. Songs are sung at a high pitch with fast beats. These songs later travelled eastwards along with the soldiers to Persia and Afghanistan, where they came to be sung in the local language. In 18th century India, many states had their private armies, which recruited Pathan and Afghani soldiers. These soldiers brought along with them the tradition of Chaar Bayt, which is still alive. A Chaar Bayt troupe is referred to as an 'akhara' (arena) which is headed by an 'ustad' (teacher/guru). The groups sing in the evenings, and compete with each other in a didactic style of question and answer. Often the poet sits with the group and writes new verses on the spot. The highly involved and deeply participatory performances would go on till late in the night.