Bauls of Bengal

The Bauls of Bengal

The Bauls are a tradition of religious minstrels in Bengal whose songs of joy, love, and longing for mystical union with the Divine evoke a profound spirituality.

The Bauls took elements from devotional Hinduism, Tantric Buddhism, and Sufi Islam and integrated them into simple, natural, and direct approach to God that seeks to transcend established religious boundaries. It is their belief that love for humankind is the path leading to love of God. The best worship of God takes place only deep within one's heart.

The Bauls' ecstatic worship and unconventional modes of behavior, such as wearing both Hindu and Muslim garments at the same time, have earned them a reputation as nonconformists. The word baul is derived from batul, meaning "afflicted with the wind" or "mad." Thus branded "crazy for God," the Bauls go their own way, quarreling with none, wandering free as the wind. Their simple language, passionate rhythm and sensuous dance steps speak directly to one's heart.