Till this date, the tradition of painted folk epics is as much alive in Rajasthan. The painters paint a series of events with context to the epic in a proper sequence on canvas, in a traditional style with local colors. They are sung by the ‘Bhopas’, wandering musicians who play at fairs and festivals to the accompaniment of the Janter, a two gourd instrument joined by a bamboo rod. These ‘Bhopas’ carry the ‘Phad’ from village to village for epic chanting. The performance is considered as an auspicious occasion. This particular scene-painting is from ‘Pabuji life’. The thirteenth century hero belonged to the village ‘Kolu’ in Marwar. His wedding was interrupted by thieves stealing the cattle. He challenged the thieves, won back the cattle, but was unfortunately killed. His bride immolated on his funeral pyre. This set an illustration of bravery and sacrifice, thus praiseworthy.
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