The Development of Folk Literature: Insights from Haryanvi Folk Songs

Abstract

Folk literature serves as a vital repository of cultural heritage, reflecting the social, historical, and linguistic evolution of communities. This research paper examines the development of folk literature through the lens of Haryanvi folk songs, a rich oral tradition from the Indian state of Haryana. Drawing on historical contexts, thematic analyses, and cultural significance, the paper explores how these songs have evolved from ancient oral practices to contemporary expressions, preserving dialects, traditions, and values amid modernization. Key figures like Pandit Lakhmi Chand and challenges such as translation and digital preservation are discussed. The analysis underscores the role of Haryanvi folk songs in sustaining folk literature's dynamic nature, offering insights into broader folkloristic trends.