1. ভাটিয়ালি গান মূলত কোন অঞ্চলের গান?
Bhatiali songs are primarily associated with which region?
Explanation: Bhatiali is the song of boatmen. It is named so because it is sung in tune with the downstream (Bhati) flow of the river. It is primarily the music of river-dominated regions of Bangladesh like Mymensingh, Dhaka, Sylhet, etc.
2. ‘একতারা’ নামক বাদ্যযন্ত্রটি মূলত কোন লোকসংগীতের সাথে যুক্ত?
The musical instrument named ‘Ektara’ is primarily associated with which folk music genre?
Explanation: The Ektara is an inseparable part of a Baul’s spiritual practice. It is a simple one-stringed instrument that symbolizes the Baul philosophy of the body (dehatatva) and monotheism. It is mentioned in the songs of Lalon Shah.
3. উত্তরবঙ্গের কোচ ও রাজবংশী সম্প্রদায়ের নিজস্ব গান কোনটি?
Which is the native song of the Koch and Rajbongshi communities of North Bengal?
Explanation: Bhawaiya is a popular folk music genre of North Bengal (Cooch Behar, Jalpaiguri of West Bengal, and Rangpur region of Bangladesh). Its melody expresses the pangs of separation of an elephant mahout or a cart driver.
4. মালদহ জেলার ‘গম্ভীরা’ উৎসবের গানে মূলত কীসের প্রতিফলন দেখা যায়?
What is primarily reflected in the songs of the ‘Gombhira’ festival of the Malda district?
Explanation: Although Gombhira songs begin with praise for Lord Shiva, its main attraction is the satirical presentation of contemporary socio-political issues through the dialogue between a grandfather (nana) and grandson (nati). It is also a form of folk drama.
5. ‘সারিগান’ কোন প্রেক্ষাপটে গাওয়া হয়?
In which context are ‘Sarigan’ sung?
Explanation: Sarigan is a work song. It is sung in chorus during group activities (like boat races, ramming roofs) to ease the physical labor and bring rhythm to the work.
6. পুরুলিয়া, বাঁকুড়া ও মেদিনীপুর অঞ্চলে কোন লোকসংগীতের ধারাটি অত্যন্ত জনপ্রিয়?
Which folk music genre is extremely popular in the Purulia, Bankura, and Medinipur regions?
Explanation: Jhumur songs and dance are a significant folk-cultural element of the Rarh region of West Bengal (Purulia, Bankura, Jhargram) and the neighboring states of Jharkhand and Odisha. Its theme is primarily based on the love story of Radha and Krishna.
7. ‘দেহতত্ত্ব’ কোন লোকসংগীতের মূল দার্শনিক ভিত্তি?
‘Dehatatva’ (philosophy of the body) is the core philosophical basis of which folk music genre?
Explanation: Dehatatva is the central point of Baul philosophy. Bauls believe that the human body is a microcosm of the universe, and God should be sought not outside, but within one’s own body. Their songs reflect this profound philosophy.
8. টুসু উৎসব ও তৎসংক্রান্ত গান কোন মাসে পালিত হয়?
In which month is the Tusu festival and its associated songs celebrated?
Explanation: Tusu is an agro-based folk festival of the Rarh region of Bengal, celebrated throughout the month of Poush, culminating on Poush Sankranti. Unmarried girls install ‘Choudal’, a symbol of the goddess Tusu, sing songs, and immerse it on the day of Sankranti.
9. ‘আলকাপ’ কী ধরনের লোকশিল্প?
What type of folk art is ‘Alkap’?
Explanation: Alkap is a popular folk drama from the Murshidabad, Malda, and Birbhum regions. It presents various social issues through a combination of songs, dance, and satirical acting. A key character in it is the ‘Sorkar’.
10. ‘মনসামঙ্গল’ কাব্যের কাহিনী অবলম্বনে কোন গান গাওয়া হয়?
Which songs are sung based on the story of the ‘Manasamangal’ Kavya?
Explanation: The story of Manasamangal Kavya, especially the tale of Behula-Lakhindar, is sung as ‘Bhasan gan’ on the occasion of worshipping the snake goddess Manasa. It is mainly prevalent in West and North Bengal.
11. ‘চটকা’ কোন গানের একটি দ্রুত লয়ের উপবিভাগ?
‘Chatka’ is a fast-paced sub-genre of which song?
Explanation: Bhawaiya has two main streams – one with a long, melancholic tune, and the other with a playful and fast rhythm, known as ‘Chatka’. Chatka songs usually deal with amusing incidents of married life or light-hearted themes.
12. লালন শাহ কোন ধারার গানের সর্বশ্রেষ্ঠ সাধক?
Lalon Shah is the greatest exponent of which genre of music?
Explanation: Lalon Shah or Lalon Sai was the most influential practitioner, lyricist, and composer of Baul music. His songs contain deep spirituality, humanism, and messages of social reform.
13. কারবালার শোকাবহ ঘটনাকে কেন্দ্র করে কোন গান পরিবেশিত হয়?
Which song is performed based on the tragic events of Karbala?
Explanation: ‘Jari’ is a Persian word meaning mourning or lamentation. This mourning song is sung among the Muslim community during the month of Muharram, centering on the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his companions at Karbala.
14. ‘ডম্ফ’ বাদ্যযন্ত্রটি কোন গানের সাথে ব্যবহৃত হয়?
The instrument ‘Damph’ is used with which type of song?
Explanation: In Gombhira songs, the Dhol and Damph are the primary instruments used. Damph is a single-headed leather instrument that helps create the solemn atmosphere of Gombhira.
15. ভাদু উৎসব ও গান কোন অঞ্চলের বৈশিষ্ট্য?
Bhadu festival and songs are characteristic of which region?
Explanation: The Bhadu festival and songs are primarily a folk tradition of the Purulia, Bankura, Birbhum, and Bardhaman districts of West Bengal. In the month of Bhadra, village girls make an idol of Queen Bhadu and sing songs.
16. ‘আগে কি সুন্দর দিন কাটাইতাম’ – এই বিখ্যাত গানটি কোন ধারার?
The famous song ‘Age ki sundor din kataitam’ belongs to which genre?
Explanation: This is an extremely popular Bengali folk song composed by Shah Abdul Karim. Although his songs have Baul and regional influences, this particular song holds a universal appeal of reminiscing about rural life.
17. ‘মাঝি’ বা ‘নাইয়া’ কোন গানের প্রধান চরিত্র?
The ‘Majhi’ or ‘Naiya’ (boatman) is the central character of which song?
Explanation: Bhatiali songs speak of the joys and sorrows, loneliness, and relationship with nature of the boatmen. Its long-drawn notes, like the river’s current, express the boatman’s emotions.
18. ‘লেটো’ গান কোন অঞ্চলের লোকনাট্য-গীতি?
‘Leto’ is a folk-drama song of which region?
Explanation: Leto is a folk drama from Birbhum, Bardhaman, and parts of Murshidabad. It presents mythological or social stories through dance, song, and acting. The rebel poet Kazi Nazrul Islam joined a Leto group in his youth.
19. ‘দোহা’ কোন গানের অপরিহার্য অংশ?
‘Doha’ is an essential part of which song?
Explanation: In Jarigan, the lead singer or ‘Boyati’ recites a ‘Doha’ in between the song, which holds or explains the thread of the main story. After the doha, the chorus sings the refrain in unison.
20. হাসন রাজার গানে কোন দার্শনিক চিন্তার প্রভাব বেশি?
Which philosophical thought is most influential in Hason Raja’s songs?
Explanation: Hason Raja, a zamindar from Sylhet, was a mystic poet and songwriter. A deep influence of Sufism is noticeable in his songs, where he views himself and the material world as God’s creation and speaks of finding the Creator through love.
21. ‘গাজীর গান’ কার মাহাত্ম্য প্রচার করে?
Whose glory does ‘Gazir Gaan’ propagate?
Explanation: Gazir Gaan is a narrative folk song about the glory of Gazi Pir. It is believed that Gazi Pir controlled the tigers of the Sundarbans. Therefore, his blessings are sought by singing this song for protection from tiger attacks.
22. দোতারা কোন অঞ্চলের লোকগানের প্রধান বাদ্যযন্ত্র?
Dotara is the main musical instrument for folk songs of which region?
Explanation: The Dotara is widely used in various genres like Bhawaiya of North Bengal and Bhatiali, Baul, Jari, etc., of East Bengal. It is one of the most important and popular accompaniments in Bengali folk music.
23. ‘ধামাইল’ গান ও নাচ কোন অঞ্চলের ঐতিহ্য?
Dhamail song and dance is a tradition of which region?
Explanation: Dhamail song and dance is a native folk tradition of the Sylhet region of Bangladesh. Usually, at weddings or other auspicious ceremonies, women gather in a circle to perform this dance and song.
24. শ্রীকৃষ্ণকীর্তন কাব্যের ওপর ভিত্তি করে কোন লোকসংগীত গড়ে উঠেছে?
Which folk music genre is based on the Srikrishnakirtan Kavya?
Explanation: The main theme of Jhumur songs is the divine love play of Radha and Krishna. The sentiment and language of many of its verses are influenced by Badu Chandidas’s ‘Srikrishnakirtan’ Kavya.
25. ‘বিচ্ছেদী’ গান কোন ধরনের অনুভূতি প্রকাশ করে?
What kind of emotion does a ‘Bicchedi’ song express?
Explanation: Bicchedi songs are songs of separation. It is a sub-genre of mystic music where the devotee feels separated from the Creator and yearns for a union. The tone of separation is also strong in Bhatiali and Baul songs.
26. ‘पट’ বা পটের ছবির সঙ্গে গান গেয়ে কাহিনী পরিবেশন করাকে কী বলে?
What is the art of narrating a story by singing with a ‘Pat’ or scroll painting called?
Explanation: The Patuas (scroll painters) narrate stories by singing while displaying pictures of various mythological or social tales painted on a scroll. This is an ancient and distinct folk art of Bengal.
27. ‘মৈষাল’ বা মোষের রাখালের গান কোন ধারার অন্তর্গত?
The song of the ‘Moishal’ or buffalo herder belongs to which genre?
Explanation: Bhawaiya songs not only depict the cart driver or mahout but also express the pain of separation, loneliness, and love of the ‘Moishal’ or buffalo herder. It’s a reflection of life in North Bengal.
28. ‘বোলান’ গান কোন উৎসবের সঙ্গে সম্পর্কিত?
‘Bolan’ songs are associated with which festival?
Explanation: Bolan songs are an essential part of the Gajan festival held in the month of Chaitra in Nadia and Murshidabad districts. In it, plays based on mythological stories are performed through song and acting.
29. আব্বাসউদ্দীন আহমদ কোন লোকসংগীতকে আন্তর্জাতিক স্তরে জনপ্রিয় করেন?
Which folk music did Abbasuddin Ahmed popularize at the international level?
Explanation: Abbasuddin Ahmed is called the uncrowned emperor of Bengali folk music. He was the first to bring genres like Bhawaiya, Bhatiali, Jari, Sari, etc., to the urban audience and later to the world through gramophone records.
30. ‘সাঁওতালি’ ভাষার প্রভাব কোন লোকসংগীতে লক্ষ্য করা যায়?
The influence of the ‘Santhali’ language is noticeable in which folk music?
Explanation: Jhumur is primarily the music of the tribal-dominated Rarh region. Therefore, the influence of Austro-Asiatic languages like Kurmali, Santhali, Mundari, etc., is evident in its lyrics and melody.
31. ‘মুর্শিদী’ গান কোন তত্ত্বের ওপর ভিত্তি করে রচিত?
‘Murshidi’ songs are based on which philosophy?
Explanation: The word ‘Murshid’ means guide or Guru. Murshidi songs express devotion to the Guru, his glory, and the yearning to attain him. It is an important part of Baul and Sufi philosophy.
32. ‘নানা-নাতি’র কথোপকথন কোন লোকনাট্যের বৈশিষ্ট্য?
The dialogue between ‘Nana-Nati’ (grandfather-grandson) is a feature of which folk drama?
Explanation: The main attraction of Gombhira of Malda is the conversation between ‘Nana’ (representing Lord Shiva) and ‘Nati’ (representing the common man). Through this, contemporary social, economic, and political problems are presented with satire and irony.
33. ‘গোরক্ষনাথের গান’ বা ‘গোপীচন্দ্রের সন্ন্যাস’ কোন লোকসংগীত ধারার অন্তর্ভুক্ত?
‘Gorakhnather Gaan’ or ‘Gopichandrer Sannyas’ belongs to which folk music tradition?
Explanation: A special type of narrative song, known as Nath-Gitika, is prevalent in North and West Bengal, based on the stories of Nath yogis, especially the tale of Maynamati and her son Gopichandra’s renunciation.
34. বিয়ের গানকে কোন অঞ্চলে ‘গীত’ বলা হয়?
In which region are wedding songs called ‘Geet’?
Explanation: In the Rajbongshi society of North Bengal, the songs sung centering on different phases of a wedding are known as ‘Geet’ or ‘Biyar Geet’. For example – Haldi Kotar Geet (song for grinding turmeric), Jol Sowar Geet (song for fetching water), etc.
35. ‘সারিন্দা’ বাদ্যযন্ত্রটি কোন গানের সঙ্গে নিবিড়ভাবে জড়িত?
The ‘Sarinda’ instrument is closely associated with which song?
Explanation: Along with the Dotara, the Sarinda is one of the main and indispensable musical instruments for Bhawaiya songs. Its melancholic and sweet tune helps to express the emotion of separation in Bhawaiya.
36. বাংলার কোন লোকসংগীত ধারাটি UNESCO-র ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ তালিকায় স্থান পেয়েছে?
Which folk music genre of Bengal has been included in UNESCO’s ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ list?
Explanation: In 2005, UNESCO recognized the Baul songs of Bengal as ‘Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity’.
37. ‘মনশিক্ষা’ কোন গানের একটি গুরুত্বপূর্ণ বিষয়?
‘Monoshikha’ (educating the mind) is an important theme of which song?
Explanation: In Baul songs, besides ‘dehatatva’, ‘monoshikha’ or the advice to educate and control the mind occupies a large part. Many of Lalon’s songs offer advice by addressing the ‘mind’.
38. ‘পালাগান’ বলতে কী বোঝায়?
What does ‘Palagan’ mean?
Explanation: Palagan is a musical drama centered around a long story or narrative. Jarigan, Gazir Gaan, songs of Manasamangal, Bolan, etc., are all different forms of Palagan.
39. ‘ও কি গাড়িয়াল ভাই…’ গানটি কোন শিল্পীর কণ্ঠে সর্বাধিক জনপ্রিয়তা লাভ করে?
The song ‘O ki garial bhai…’ gained immense popularity in which artist’s voice?
Explanation: ‘O ki garial bhai’ is a timeless Bhawaiya song. Written and composed by Tulsi Lahiri, this song became immortal in the soulful voice of Abbasuddin Ahmed.
40. ‘করম’ পূজা উপলক্ষে কোন নাচ-গান পরিবেশিত হয়?
Which dance and song are performed on the occasion of ‘Karam’ puja?
Explanation: Karam puja is an important festival for the indigenous people of Rarh Bengal and Central and Eastern India. On this occasion, young men and women engage in Jhumur dance and song to the rhythm of the Madol.
41. ‘বারোমাস্যা’ কোন ধরনের গানের বিষয়বস্তু?
‘Baromasya’ is the theme of what type of song?
Explanation: Baromasya is an ancient form in Bengali literature where the heroine describes her pain of separation in relation to the changing nature of the twelve months. Its application is seen in folk music, especially in Bhatiali and Jhumur.
42. ‘ঢপ কীর্তন’-এর প্রবর্তক কে?
Who is the originator of ‘Dhop Kirtan’?
Explanation: Dhop Kirtan is a folk or chamber-style genre of Kirtan. It is believed that Rupchand Adhikari of Bardhaman introduced this style in the 19th century, which is a blend of classical and folk tunes.
43. কোন গানকে ‘মাটির গান’ বা ‘প্রাণের গান’ বলা হয়?
Which music is called the ‘song of the soil’ or ‘song of the soul’?
Explanation: Folk music is the spontaneous expression of the life, culture, beliefs, and feelings of the common people. It stays close to the soil and speaks the language of the soul, hence it is called the ‘song of the soil’ or ‘song of the soul’.
44. ‘বয়াতি’ শব্দটি কোন গানের মূল গায়কের ক্ষেত্রে ব্যবহৃত হয়?
The term ‘Boyati’ is used for the lead singer of which song?
Explanation: In a Jarigan performance, the person who narrates the main story and leads the singing is called the ‘Boyati’. He is accompanied by a group of ‘Dohars’, who sing the refrain or chorus.
45. ‘মাছ ধরার গান’ বাংলার কোন অঞ্চলের বৈশিষ্ট্য?
‘Fish-catching songs’ are a feature of which region of Bengal?
Explanation: In the riverine regions of Bengal, especially in East Bengal, fishing is a vital part of life. During fishing, fishermen are encouraged and brought together by singing songs in chorus.
46. ‘প্রেমের মরশুম’ হিসেবে পরিচিত কোন উৎসব, যা ঝুমুরের সাথে সম্পর্কিত?
Which festival, known as the ‘season of love’, is related to Jhumur?
Explanation: During springtime, Jhumur song and dance sessions are held in Rarh Bengal centered around the Dol or Holi festival. This festival of colors is also celebrated as a festival of love, and the Jhumur verses about Radha-Krishna’s love are especially sung at this time.
47. ‘বাউল’ শব্দের বুৎপত্তিগত অর্থ কী?
What is the etymological meaning of the word ‘Baul’?
Explanation: The word ‘Baul’ is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit ‘Vatula’ (mad) or ‘Vyakul’ (eager). Devotees who are considered mad or absorbed in their love for God, existing outside conventional social norms, are called Bauls.
48. ‘ধামালী’ চরিত্রটি কোন লোকনাট্যে দেখা যায়?
The character ‘Dhamali’ is seen in which folk drama?
Explanation: In Bolan songs, a character like a jester or ‘Dhamali’ enters in the middle of the main play to create humor and performs funny rhymes or songs about contemporary events.
49. ‘গাড়োয়ান’-এর বিরহ কোন গানের মূল উপজীব্য?
The longing of the ‘Garoan’ (cart driver) is the central theme of which song?
Explanation: In Bhawaiya songs, the fatigue of the lonely road and the painful longing for his beloved of the bullock cart driver or ‘Garoan’ are expressed in a very melancholic tune.
50. ‘মাদল’ কোন অঞ্চলের লোকসংগীতের প্রধান তালবাদ্য?
‘Madol’ is the main percussion instrument for the folk music of which region?
Explanation: The Madol is a double-headed drum-like instrument, primarily a favorite of the Santhal and Kurmi communities. The beats of the Madol are an essential accompaniment to Jhumur dance and song.
51. ‘আল্লাহ মেঘ দে, পানি দে’ – এটি কী ধরনের গান?
‘Allah megh de, pani de’ – what type of song is this?
Explanation: This is a popular folk song sung during droughts or dry spells to pray to the creator for rain. It reflects the deep faith of Bengal’s agro-based society.
52. ‘ছোকরা’ নাচের দল কোন লোকনাট্যের সাথে যুক্ত?
The ‘Chhokra’ dance troupe is associated with which folk drama?
Explanation: In an Alkap play, teenage boys known as ‘Chhokra’ dress up as girls and participate in the dancing and singing. This is a significant attraction of Alkap.
53. ‘মন মাঝি তোর বৈঠা নে রে’ – এই গানটিতে ‘মন’কে কীসের সাথে তুলনা করা হয়েছে?
In the song ‘Mon majhi tor boitha ne re’, what is the ‘mind’ (mon) compared to?
Explanation: This is a famous dehatatva-based Bhatiali song. Here, the human body is compared to a boat, the worldly life to a river, and the mind to a boatman or navigator, speaking of crossing the ocean of life.
54. ‘সোহরা উৎসব’-এর সময় কোন গান গাওয়া হয়?
Which song is sung during the ‘Sohrai festival’?
Explanation: Sohrai is a major harvesting festival of indigenous communities like the Santhals and Kurmis, celebrated on the new moon night of the Kartik month. Jhumur songs and dance are indispensable to this festival.
55. ‘বাউল সম্রাট’ নামে কে পরিচিত?
Who is known as the ‘Baul Samrat’ (Emperor of Bauls)?
Explanation: For his philosophy, depth, and a vast number of compositions, Lalon Shah is given the highest honor as the ‘Baul Samrat’ or ‘Baul Guru’.
56. ‘চৌডল’ কীসের প্রতীক হিসেবে টুসু গানে ব্যবহৃত হয়?
What does ‘Choudal’ symbolize in Tusu songs?
Explanation: No idol is worshipped in the Tusu festival. Girls create a temple-like structure with colored paper and bamboo sticks, called a ‘Choudal’. This is worshipped as the symbol of Goddess Tusu, and songs are sung to it.
57. ‘হুদুমা দেওয়া’র গান কোন সামাজিক প্রথার সাথে যুক্ত?
‘Huduma Dewar Gaan’ is associated with which social custom?
Explanation: According to a belief prevalent in the Rajbongshi society of North Bengal, during a drought, women of the village pray for rain by singing and dancing completely naked late at night, dedicated to the cloud god ‘Huduma Deo’.
58. “আমার বাড়ীর কাছে আরশিনগর / সেথা এক পড়শী বসত করে” – এই ‘পড়শী’ কে?
“Amar barir kache arshinagar / setha ek porshi bosot kore” – who is this ‘Porshi’ (neighbor)?
Explanation: In this famous Baul song by Lalon Shah, ‘Arshinagar’ (city of mirrors) is the body, and the ‘Porshi’ (neighbor) is the ‘Man of the Heart’ or the Supreme Soul residing deep within, whom the devotee seeks.
59. ‘জগন্নাথমঙ্গলের গান’ বাংলার কোন অঞ্চলে প্রচলিত?
‘Jagannathmangaler Gaan’ is prevalent in which region of Bengal?
Explanation: Being adjacent to Odisha, the influence of Lord Jagannath is seen in the Medinipur, Bankura, and Jhargram regions. Here, narrative songs (palagan) describing the glory of Jagannath are sung on the occasion of Rath Yatra.
60. ‘কবিগান’-এ দুই দলের মধ্যে কীসের লড়াই হয়?
What kind of battle takes place between the two groups in ‘Kobigan’?
Explanation: Kobigan is a stage performance where two or more groups of ‘Kobiyals’ (poet-singers) engage in a battle of wits and arguments on a given topic, through extemporaneously composed rhymes, verses, and songs.
61. কোন লোকগানে নারীর দৃষ্টিকোণ থেকে তার গার্হস্থ্য জীবনের সুখ-দুঃখের কথা বলা হয়?
Which folk song expresses the joys and sorrows of a woman’s domestic life from her perspective?
Explanation: Bhadu and Tusu songs are primarily songs of women’s rituals and festivals. Through these songs, women express their personal feelings about their daily life, oppression in their in-laws’ house, longing for their paternal home, love, and affection.
62. ‘খোল’ কোন গানের প্রধান তালবাদ্য?
‘Khol’ is the main percussion instrument of which song?
Explanation: The Khol, or Srikhol, is the primary and indispensable percussion instrument for Kirtan music. A Kirtan session comes alive with the Khol accompanied by cymbals (Kartal). Chaitanya Mahaprabhu popularized the use of the Khol in Kirtan.
63. ‘পরবের গান’ কথাটি কোন গানের সমার্থক?
The term ‘Porober Gaan’ (festival song) is synonymous with which song?
Explanation: Jhumur songs are sung centered around various ‘porob’ or festivals of the Rarh region (like Karam, Sohrai, Tusu). Therefore, Jhumur is often called ‘Porober Gaan’ or festival song.
64. ‘সখীসংবাদ’ বা ‘গোষ্ঠলীলা’ কোন গানের বিষয়?
‘Sokhisongbad’ or ‘Gostholila’ is the subject of which song?
Explanation: Among the various stages of Lilakirtan, the conversation between the sakhis (Sokhisongbad) or Krishna’s journey to the pasture (Gostholila) are important subjects. In Kirtan, these ‘lilas’ (divine plays) are sung through verses (padas).
65. ‘সরকার’ ও ‘পাইক’ কোন লোকনাট্যের চরিত্র?
‘Sorkar’ and ‘Paik’ are characters of which folk drama?
Explanation: In an Alkap play, the ‘Sorkar’ is the lead singer and director who conducts the performance. His companions are called ‘Paik’.
66. বাংলার লোকসংগীত মূলত কাদের দ্বারা সৃষ্ট ও লালিত?
By whom are the folk songs of Bengal primarily created and nurtured?
Explanation: Folk music originated and developed in the rural society of Bengal. Farmers, boatmen, weavers, blacksmiths, potters, and other working-class and common people created these songs from their daily lives, work, festivals, and beliefs, keeping them alive through oral tradition.
67. ‘বঁধু, কোন আলো লাগলো চোখে’ – এই গানটি কোন ধারার প্রভাবযুক্ত?
‘Bodhu, kon aalo laglo chokhe’ – this song is influenced by which genre?
Explanation: Although this is a famous song by Rabindranath Tagore, its melody and the address ‘Bodhu’ are inspired by the style of Kirtan. Rabindranath was deeply influenced by the tunes and sentiments of various Bengali folk music genres.
68. ‘জাগ্রত হিন্দু সম্প্রদায়’ কোন গানের আয়োজন করত?
Which songs were organized by the ‘Jagrata Hindu Sampraday’?
Explanation: In the Nadia-Murshidabad region, both Hindu and Muslim communities used to perform Bolan songs. Later, a group named ‘Jagrata Hindu Sampraday’ started performing Bolan based only on Hindu mythological stories.
69. ‘আখড়া’ কী?
What is an ‘Akhra’?
Explanation: An ‘Akhra’ is a place or hermitage where Baul, Fakir, or Vaishnava devotees gather to perform their spiritual practices and music. Lalon’s Akhra is located in Kushtia.
70. ‘হাওর’ অঞ্চলের জীবনযাত্রা কোন গানের মূল প্রেরণা?
The lifestyle of the ‘Haor’ region is the main inspiration for which song?
Explanation: The vast water bodies, solitude, and the harsh-yet-gentle nature of the Haor-dominated regions of Bangladesh like Sylhet, Sunamganj, Kishoreganj, etc., are the main sources of inspiration for Bhatiali, Bicchedi, and the songs of mystic poets like Hason Raja or Shah Abdul Karim.
71. ভাওয়াইয়া গানের ‘গলার কাজ’ বা ‘ভাঙ্গন’ বলতে কী বোঝায়?
What is meant by ‘golar kaaj’ or ‘bhangan’ in Bhawaiya songs?
Explanation: A key feature of Bhawaiya is its unique vocal technique. The singer, after raising the tune to a high pitch, suddenly breaks the voice and brings it down to a low pitch, which intensifies the song’s plea and pain. This is called ‘golar kaaj’ or ‘bhangan’.
72. ‘ধর্মঠাকুরের গাজন’ কোন অঞ্চলে প্রচলিত?
‘Dharmathakurer Gajan’ is prevalent in which region?
Explanation: Dharmathakur is a folk deity of the Rarh region (Birbhum, Bankura, Bardhaman). During the Gajan festival held for his worship, songs describing the glory of Dharmathakur are sung.
73. কোন লোকসংগীতে প্রশ্ন-উত্তরের আঙ্গিক দেখা যায়?
In which folk music is a question-answer format observed?
Explanation: The basic structure of Kobigan is question-answer or debate. One side throws a question, and the other side answers it through song. This is called ‘Chapan-Utor’.
74. ‘বাওকুমটা’ বাতাসের কথা কোন গানে পাওয়া যায়?
The mention of ‘Baokumta’ wind is found in which song?
Explanation: In Bhawaiya songs, references to various natural elements of North Bengal, such as the Teesta river, ‘Baokumta’ wind (a type of whirlwind), etc., are found, which enriches the song with a regional identity.
75. ‘ভাইফোঁটা’ বা ‘ভাতৃদ্বিতীয়া’র সময় বোনেরা ভাইয়ের জন্য যে গান করে, তাকে কী বলে?
What are the songs sung by sisters for their brothers during ‘Bhaiphota’ or ‘Bhatridwitiya’ called?
Explanation: Bhaiphota is a family and social festival. On this day, sisters apply a ‘phota’ (mark) on their brother’s forehead and pray for his long life by reciting rhymes or singing songs. This is a widely practiced folk custom.
76. লোকসংগীতের ভাষা কেমন হয়?
What is the language of folk music like?
Explanation: Folk music is composed in the spoken language of the common people. Therefore, it uses dialects mixed with the scent of the local soil. Its expression is simple, unpretentious, and emotional.
77. ‘গম্ভীরা’ নামটি কোথা থেকে এসেছে বলে মনে করা হয়?
From where is the name ‘Gombhira’ believed to have originated?
Explanation: Gombhira is essentially a festival of Shiva. The sanctum sanctorum of a Shiva temple, where the Shivalinga is placed, is called ‘Gambhira’. Scholars believe the festival got its name because it was held in the temple courtyard.
78. ‘সাঁঝবেলা’ বা সন্ধ্যায় কোন গান গাওয়া হয়?
Which song is sung in the ‘sanjhbela’ or evening?
Explanation: In rural Bengal, the rhyme or song sung for well-wishing while lighting a lamp at the Tulsi mancha or in the house in the evening is called ‘Sanjher Bati’ or ‘Sanjher Gaan’. It is an ancient folk belief and custom.
79. ‘আজ পাশা খেলব রে শ্যাম…’ এই গানটি কোন পর্যায়ের কীর্তন?
‘Aaj pasha khelbo re Shyam…’ – this song is a Kirtan of which stage?
Explanation: This song describes Radha and Krishna playing pasha (a dice game) in the festive atmosphere of Holi or Dol. It is a popular verse from the Dol-lila stage of Lilakirtan.
80. ‘লোকসংগীত’ ও ‘লোকগীতি’র মধ্যে মূল পার্থক্য কী?
What is the main difference between ‘Lokosangeet’ (folk music) and ‘Lokogiti’ (folk song)?
Explanation: ‘Giti’ primarily refers to the literature or lyrics of a song. ‘Sangeet’ refers to the combination of song, instrument, and dance. Therefore, Lokogiti is the lyric of the folk song, while Lokosangeet is its complete form including melody, rhythm, instruments, and singing style.
81. “গাড়ি চলে না, চলে না রে” – এই গানে ‘গাড়ি’ বলতে কী বোঝানো হয়েছে?
In the song “Gari chole na, chole na re”, what does ‘gari’ (vehicle) signify?
Explanation: In this famous mystic song by Shah Abdul Karim, ‘gari’ metaphorically signifies the human body or life. The core philosophy of the song is that this body-vehicle does not move without the will of the driver or the Supreme Soul.
82. ‘ছেমড়া নাচন’ কোন লোকনাট্যের অংশ?
‘Chhemra Nachon’ is a part of which folk drama?
Explanation: ‘Chhemra Nachon’ or ‘Chhokra Nach’ is an integral part of Alkap, where adolescent boys dance dressed as girls. It is performed for the entertainment of the audience.
83. কোন গানের সুরে দীর্ঘ টান বা বিস্তার থাকে?
Which song has long-drawn notes or elaboration in its melody?
Explanation: The main characteristic of Bhatiali songs is their elongated, drawn-out melody. Like the speed of the downstream river current, its tune is slow and expansive, expressing the boatman’s feeling of loneliness and distance.
84. ‘পালাটিয়া’ শব্দটি কাদের বোঝাতে ব্যবহৃত হয়?
The term ‘Palatiya’ is used to refer to whom?
Explanation: The artists or groups who perform Palagan (like Jari, Sari, Bolan, Gombhira) are sometimes referred to as ‘Palatiya’.
85. নির্মলেন্দু চৌধুরী কোন লোকসংগীতে বিশেষ পারদর্শী ছিলেন?
In which folk music was Nirmalendu Chowdhury particularly proficient?
Explanation: Nirmalendu Chowdhury was a legendary folk music artist. He popularized Sylhet’s Dhamail, Sarigan, and Rarh Bengal’s Jhumur songs both at home and abroad.
86. ‘মাথুর’ পর্যায়ের কীর্তনে কোন রসের প্রাধান্য?
Which ‘rasa’ (emotion) is predominant in ‘Mathur’ stage Kirtan?
Explanation: In Kirtan, ‘Mathur’ is the stage where Sri Krishna leaves Vrindavan for Mathura. This stage depicts the intense longing and pain of separation of Radha and the Gopis, hence it is dominated by Karuna Rasa (pathos).
87. লোকসংগীতের সুর কে রচনা করেন?
Who composes the melody of folk songs?
Explanation: Folk music does not have a specific author or composer. It is born spontaneously in folk society and, over time, is refined by the contributions of many people and passed down orally from generation to generation.
88. ‘হোলবোলের গান’ কোন উৎসবের অনুষঙ্গ?
‘Holboler Gaan’ is an accompaniment to which festival?
Explanation: In the mourning processions of Muharram, besides Jarigan, grief is expressed by chanting ‘Holbol’ or ‘Hay Hussain, Hay Hussain’. The songs sung with this chant are known as ‘Holboler Gaan’.
89. ‘মারেফতি’ গান কোন দর্শনের কথা বলে?
‘Marefati’ songs speak of which philosophy?
Explanation: ‘Marefat’ is an Arabic word meaning spiritual knowledge or the realization of the mystery of the Supreme Being. Marefati songs, much like Sufi and Baul philosophy, discuss profound concepts like the relationship between the creator and creation, the search for the soul, etc.
90. ‘ঝাঁপান’ উৎসবের মূল আকর্ষণ কী?
What is the main attraction of the ‘Jhapan’ festival?
Explanation: Jhapan is a festival organized to worship the snake goddess Manasa, prevalent mainly in Rarh Bengal (especially Bankura, Birbhum). In this festival, snake charmers display tricks with various venomous snakes, and the story of Manasamangal is sung.
91. সামাজিক প্রেক্ষাপটে লোকসংগীতের প্রধান ভূমিকা কী?
What is the main role of folk music in a social context?
Explanation: Folk music not only provides entertainment but also strengthens social bonds (like Sarigan), imparts moral and spiritual education (like Baul songs), and speaks of protest and reform against social injustice (like Gombhira).
92. ‘চৌপদিয়া’ ঝুমুর কোন অঞ্চলের বৈশিষ্ট্য?
‘Choupadiya’ Jhumur is a characteristic of which region?
Explanation: ‘Choupadiya’ or four-line Jhumur is a popular genre mainly from the undivided Manbhum region (present-day Purulia and parts of Jharkhand) and the adjacent Bankura and Medinipur regions. It is enriched by the influence of classical ragas.
93. ‘প্রেমজুড়ি’র উল্লেখ কোন গানে পাওয়া যায়?
The mention of ‘Premjuri’ is found in which song?
Explanation: Sylhet’s Dhamail songs describe the love play of Radha and Krishna. Within the songs, ‘Premjuri’ (loving couple) refers to Radha and Krishna.
94. কোন গানকে ‘কৃষকের গান’ বলা যেতে পারে?
Which song can be called the ‘farmer’s song’?
Explanation: These songs are directly linked to the agricultural cycle. The joys and sorrows of sowing, growing, and harvesting crops are the main themes of these songs. Therefore, in a broader sense, they can be called farmer’s songs.
95. ‘ডগর’ শব্দটি ভাওয়াইয়া গানে কী অর্থে ব্যবহৃত হয়?
What does the word ‘dogor’ mean in Bhawaiya songs?
Explanation: ‘Dogor’ is a regional word meaning path or road. This word is often used in Bhawaiya songs to describe the long, lonely path of the cart driver or buffalo herder.
96. ‘বাঙালি মুসলমানের মাতৃভাষায় প্রথম সঙ্গীত রচয়িতা’ কে?
Who was the ‘first composer of songs in the mother tongue of Bengali Muslims’?
Explanation: Researchers consider the 17th-century poet Syed Murtaza to be one of the pioneers of composing ‘padas’ or songs in the mother tongue within the Bengali Muslim community. His verses blend Vaishnava and Sufi philosophies.
97. ‘নাটুয়া’ নাচ কোন গানের সঙ্গে সম্পর্কিত?
‘Natua’ dance is related to which song?
Explanation: ‘Natua’ is a type of masculine dance, primarily performed with Jhumur songs of Rarh Bengal. It is a heroic and fast-paced dance.
98. ‘সবার উপরে মানুষ সত্য, তাহার উপরে নাই’ – এই উক্তিটি কোন লোককবির দর্শনের সাথে মেলে?
‘Man is the ultimate truth, there is none above him’ – this quote matches the philosophy of which folk poet?
Explanation: This famous quote is from the medieval poet Chandidas. However, this humanist philosophy is equally reflected in the songs and philosophy of the Baul saint Lalon Shah, where he placed humanity above caste, creed, and religion.
99. ‘আঞ্চলিকতা’ লোকসংগীতের একটি প্রধান বৈশিষ্ট্য কেন?
Why is ‘regionalism’ a key characteristic of folk music?
Explanation: Folk music is the song of the soil. Therefore, just as the songs of a riverine country (Bhatiali) have the influence of the river, the songs of a hilly/forested country (Jhumur) or a semi-arid region (Bhawaiya) bear the imprint of the nature and lifestyle of that region. This is the basis of the regionalism of folk music.
100. লোকসংগীতের ভবিষ্যৎ কীসের উপর নির্ভরশীল?
On what does the future of folk music depend?
Explanation: The lifeblood of folk music is its roots, which are embedded deep in folk life. Folk music will survive only if this connection is maintained and its appeal is relevantly presented to the new generation over time. Not just preservation, but relevance is also crucial.