Traditional Folk Media in Marwar Region of Rajasthan

Traditional folk media have a remarkable impact on the rural society because of their acceptable idioms, functional significance and entertainment component. The present study was conducted in Pali district in Marwar region in Rajasthan state. For the purpose of this study, four villages namely Khetawas, Roopawas, Hemawas and Sodawas were purposively selected in which traditional media shows were performed regularly. Using random sampling method, forty viewers each from all villages were selected. Only five traditional media namely Tamasa, Bhajan, Kirtan, Kathputali and Gorbandh were studied. The most liked traditional media was Tamasa due to its lively performance and story contents based on current topics. Overall first preference for items on traditional media was given to social themes followed by patriotic songs. The major reasons attributed to declining trends all traditional media were poor presentation of folk artists followed by easy availability of variety of programmes on television. The artists were encouraged during the show for good performance by clapping and rewarding money. Quality of performances needs to improve through proper training through established music and dance schools which are virtually non-existant at the moment. There is need to give financial support, incentives and training if we want these arts to be conserved and promoted.