Baul - A Religious Sect in Bengal

Bauls, a religious group in Bengal, a state located in the eastern region of India, is a wandering music cult which has a special place in the history of the country. Often called as a group of mad people, the Bauls are noted for their way of dressing and their special music tradition.

The word Baul was derived from the Sanskrit words Vatula (madcap) and Vyakula (restless). The way they live makes them different from others. Baul Music is the traditional folk music of Bengal and the bauls pour out their feelings and emotions in their songs. Baul music had a great influence on Rabindranath Tagore's poetry and on his music, Rabindra Sangeet.