“Hello? Ji, bataiye. Main kaise aapki is puneet karya mein sahayta kar sakta hoon?”
These were the first words Naveen Singh Bisht said when we told him about our work. Despite working as a journalist for many years, Naveen now dedicates his time to preserving traditional and fading arts. Speaking with him, you instantly feel his wisdom, like that of a guru. Under his guidance, we got to understand some folk traditions in their true form, which are now on the brink of disappearing. He is deeply saddened by those who distort these arts. Even at the age of 72, Naveen sees himself as a lifelong learner and has a deep interest in folk literature. When asked about the importance of music, he says, “Lok sangeet mere liye meri maa ke samaan hai” (Folk music is like a mother to me).
Naveen believes that music is a gift of nature, inherited through generations. Naveen strives to present music in the pure form he learned from his teachers. He is also a poet and is currently writing some books in Kumaoni and Hindi. Naveen prefers to sing songs that reflect the beauty of nature and social fabric.
He says, “Sangeet mere liye pooja hai, mera ishwar hai. Main uske darshan karna chahta hoon.” (Music is worship to me, my God. I want to experience its divinity.)
In the mountains, there is a tradition of singing chaiti and basant songs, which Naveen was going to perform with his group. Arriving at the shoot location with his group, Naveen was accompanied by Rajendra Nayal on harmonium and Umesh Kumar on flute. Rajendra Nayal is a senior artist whom many in Almora regard as their guru. Trained in tabla and harmonium, he is a graded artist at All India Radio. Umesh was there to infuse the melody of spring with his flute. Naveen, dressed in simple attire, took some time to change into his traditional costume while telling us about the prevailing traditions. We, like diligent researchers, listened carefully while setting up.
As the recording started, an enchanting atmosphere enveloped us. Naveen sang the first song, a chaiti titled “Nau Hritu Sunlo Ve,” which speaks about seasons, familial love, and the emotions of separation, reminiscing about the old days. As the song ended, tears streamed down his face, unable to hide his emotions. We quickly gave him water and some time to compose himself. He shared that he often gets emotional during performances or All India Radio recordings.
The mood was a bit emotional, but his group members comforted him, and Naveen got ready to sing the next song, “Ruvo Ruvo Basant ki Ve,” a lyrical celebration of spring, symbolizing renewal and beauty, with imagery of bees, barley, and the cycle of nature. Just as he had mentioned, his songs showcased the beauty of nature, and all of us present felt the magic of his music. We were truly mesmerized by these songs.
