Resonance of Kesudo and Abil Gulal: Rediscovering Gujarati Holi Classics and Folk Songs

Holi is undoubtedly the most spirited and playful Indian festival. It immerses us in a day of colors, water fights, and a riot of hues celebrating the season of spring. From Pichkari and water balloons to color-filled bags and tanks, the arsenal is ready, and the speakers are echoing timeless tunes like 'Rang Barse Bhige Chunar Wali' and 'Balam Pichkari Jo Tune Mujhe Mari.'

However, this year, let's enrich our celebration by adding the forgotten Gujarati folk and popular songs dedicated to Holi and the Fagan month to our playlist!

Fagan month marks the season of spring, the transition from winter to summer. Gujaratis have celebrated this month with fervor for generations. Folk songs weave tales of blooming flowers and picturesque landscapes, setting the stage for the Holi festival where vibrant colors like Gulal and Kesudo take center stage.

Embarking on a nostalgic journey, let's revisit some classic and folk Gujarati songs that have added to the charm of Holi and the Fagan season.

This beloved folk song paints a vivid picture of the beauty of Fagan month. It captures the joy of Holi, where young and old come together to play with Gulal, Pichakari, and unbridled excitement.

This rendition, sung by icons such as Alka Yagnik and Praful Dave, comes from the film Sajan Tara Sambharna. The song was a hit during the 1980s, seamlessly blending the exuberance of Holi with a touch of romance. The Bollywood-like feel of the song made it a quintessential part of Holi celebrations during that era.

In the heart of every rural household in Gujarat, the songs of Diwaliben Bhil once echoed. Her rendition of ‘Oode Oode Re Abil Gulal’ extends an invitation to join in the Holi celebration with Abil and Gulal colors. Playing Holi and Garba to such classics is the epitome of how we Gujaratis revel in Holi.

Now, this one will surprise you! This melodious gem is sung by Geeta Dutt, the renowned singer, and wife of director Guru Dutt. Dutt's playful and sweet voice narrating the joys of the spring season in this Fagan song is pure beauty.

A recent addition from the movie Kutch Express, 'Ude Re Gulaal' composed by Sachin Jigar and sung by Bhoomi Trivedi and Keerthi Sagathia, is the perfect rhythm to dance and groove to while playing with colors. Crafted by Sneha Desai, this song captures the spirit of celebration.

Feel free to comment if there are any other Gujarati folk songs or movie tunes on Holi that might have slipped our notice! Happy Holi!