Folk Music – Allah Jilai Bai (1902-1992)

Commemorative Stamp Set: Allah Jilai Bai and Indian Folk Music

Issued by the Department of Posts

Design Elements:

The commemorative stamp set for Hajjan Allah Jilai Bai features vibrant and intricate designs inspired by the traditional folk music of Rajasthan. The stamp:

• Allah Jilai Bai is portrayed in traditional Rajasthani attire, symbolizing her deep connection to the cultural and musical heritage of Rajasthan.
• The background features elements from Rajasthani culture, such as desert landscapes, peacocks, and palatial structures, with a focus on the musical instruments associated with Rajasthani folk music, like the sarod and tabla.
• Maand and Lok Sangeet, traditional forms of Rajasthani folk music, are represented through the design’s motifs and colors, emphasizing the musical heritage she embodied.

Cultural and Historical Significance:

• Allah Jilai Bai was a pioneering figure in Rajasthani folk music, particularly known for her renditions of Maand songs like “Kesariya Balam” and “Mharo Rangeelo Rajasthan”.
• She was instrumental in popularizing Rajasthani folk music, taking it from royal courts to a wider audience, both nationally and internationally.
• Her tutelage under Ustad Hussain Bakhsh gave her mastery in Dadra, Thumri, and traditional Rajasthani music, and she became a beacon of folk music traditions, deeply rooted in Rajasthan’s cultural identity.

Her contributions not only preserved folk traditions but also helped them flourish in modern times, inspiring generations of musicians. Her recognition, with accolades like the Padma Shri, underscores her national importance.

Usage:

• Philatelic Collectors: The stamps hold immense value for those interested in Indian folk traditions and the history of Indian music.
• General Public: These stamps serve to educate the public about the rich cultural and musical heritage of Rajasthan, as well as to pay tribute to one of its greatest exponents, Allah Jilai Bai.
• Special Edition Collectors: The limited edition stamps also feature as part of a larger collection on Indian folk music and performing arts.

Importance of the Commemorative Stamp Set:

This stamp set is important as it:

• Celebrates Rajasthani Folk Music and recognizes Allah Jilai Bai’s role in preserving and promoting this heritage, especially her performances of Maand and Lok Sangeet.
• Highlights the cultural diversity of India, showcasing the folk traditions that represent the country’s vast artistic heritage.
• Serves as a reminder of the role of women in Indian music, with Allah Jilai Bai standing out as a symbol of empowerment and artistic excellence.

This commemorative release draws attention to India’s responsibility to honor and promote its cultural heritage through notable figures like Allah Jilai Bai.

Example of the Stamp Design:

• Allah Jilai Bai Stamp: Features her portrait dressed in traditional Rajasthani attire, with a backdrop of desert and folk instruments. The iconic song “Kesariya Balam” is subtly referenced in the design, creating a visual connection to her most famous Maand performance.
• Joint Miniature Sheet: The design could feature iconic Rajasthani cultural symbols such as camels, sand dunes, and peacocks, reflecting the folk roots of her music.

The Commemorative Stamp Set Might Include:

• First Day Cover (FDC): A cover with a special cancellation mark related to Rajasthan’s folk traditions, featuring Allah Jilai Bai’s contributions to Indian music.
• Information Brochure: Detailing Allah Jilai Bai’s life, her musical journey, and her role in popularizing Rajasthani folk music.
• Souvenir Sheets: Could combine Allah Jilai Bai’s image with representations of Rajasthani folk instruments and dance forms.

Significance:

The commemorative stamp set for Allah Jilai Bai is a tribute to one of the most influential voices in Indian folk music. It highlights the role of women in the arts, preserves the rich traditions of Rajasthani folk music, and ensures that the legacy of performers like Allah Jilai Bai remains an important part of India’s cultural memory. Through her music, she bridged the gap between royal courts and the common people, embodying the soul of Rajasthan’s musical heritage.