Lokadharmi Pradarshankari Kalao Ki Shaishik Upayogita - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Lokadharmi Pradarshankari Kalao ki Shaishik Upayogita" by Mahendra Bhanavat, focusing on the educational utility of folk performing arts:

Title: Lokadharmi Pradarshankari Kalao ki Shaishik Upayogita (Educational Utility of Folk Performing Arts) Author: Dr. Mahendra Bhanavat Publisher: Z_Kesarimalji_Surana_Abhinandan_Granth_012044.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/211878/1

Core Argument: The author argues that folk performing arts, often relegated to mere ritualistic performances during festivals and ceremonies, possess significant and largely untapped educational potential. Historically, these arts were marginalized, associated with lower castes, and seen as purely for entertainment rather than as tools for cultural and educational development. However, with a shift in perspective, particularly after India's independence, these arts are now being recognized for their deep connection to folk culture and their ability to impart knowledge and values effectively.

Key Points and Examples:

Historical Marginalization and its Consequences:
- Folk performing arts were viewed as traditional and ritualistic, limiting their perceived role to specific occasions.
- They became performative duties rather than integrated aspects of life, leading to a dilution of their essence and beauty.
- Association with "backward" castes led to a dismissive attitude, despite their entertaining value.
- This limited their development, confining them to families whose livelihood depended on them, thus discouraging innovation or deeper artistic pursuit.
Post-Independence Shift and Recognition:
- Following independence, there was a broader societal and ideological shift towards uplifting marginalized communities.
- Socialist ideologies highlighted the diverse forms of performing arts.
- Surveys and studies by art enthusiasts, researchers, and scholars revealed the profound connection of these arts to the collective consciousness and cultural upbringing of the people.
- This led to the realization of their significant educational utility and deep integration with folk life.
Specific Folk Performing Arts and Their Educational Applications:
- Educational Dance (शैक्षणिक नृत्य):
  - Many folk dances can be adapted for community educational purposes.
  - These dances should be tailored to the age, physical, mental, and emotional needs of children.
  - Examples from European countries are cited.
  - Incorporating physical exercise is crucial for children's development, promoting disciplined movement within musical rhythm.
  - The importance of trained teachers is emphasized to prevent physical deformities and the development of negative habits.
  - Examples: Rajasthan's 'Gair', 'Ghoomar'; Gujarat's 'Garba', 'Raas'; Uttar Pradesh's 'Kajri'; Andhra's 'Banjara'; Manipur's 'Bahiro'; tribal dances. Ghoomar, once restricted to royal courts, is now a prominent dance during Republic Day celebrations, showcasing its ability to foster nationalistic spirit.
- Educational Kavadi-Pat (शिक्षात्मक कावड़पाट):
  - Kavadi is a portable shrine made of wooden panels, often painted with religious and educational illustrations.
  - Traditionally, the 'Kavadiyabhat' travels from village to village, opening panels to narrate stories and display images, earning his livelihood.
  - Educational Use: Kavadi is now beneficial for both child and adult education. Stories or lessons can be depicted on the panels with accompanying text. This visual and narrative approach aids comprehension, retention, and facilitates easy group learning and discussion. It can make learning poems, stories, plays, and poems more engaging and accessible.
- Useful Aspect of Pad (पड़ का उपयोगी पक्ष):
  - 'Pad' is a long scroll of cloth with narrative paintings depicting historical events or characters.
  - The 'Bhopa' (narrator) unfurls the 'Pad' with bamboo poles and narrates the accompanying saga, often accompanied by his wife ('Bhopin').
  - Educational Use: 'Pad' can be used to depict the complete life story of a great personality or a significant epic, or smaller narratives on sections of the scroll can be used for educational purposes.
  - Example: A 'Pad' depicting the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir was created by the Sangeet Kalakendra, Bhilwara, educating thousands about his principles. It can be used for general education, family planning, adult literacy, and strike awareness. The Rajasthan Higher Secondary Board has recognized puppetry as a subject, acknowledging the educational potential of such art forms.
- Janashikshan by Puppets (कठपुतलियों द्वारा जनशिक्षण):
  - Puppets are a powerful medium for mass education, especially when their educational potential is recognized.
  - While traditionally used for entertainment, European and American countries have successfully integrated puppetry into various educational levels.
  - International Context:
    - In England, pioneers like Philip Pot and George Speight introduced puppets into child education.
    - Dr. Marjorie McFarlane in America also used puppets effectively in education.
    - Eastern European countries (Romania, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Hungary, Greece, Russia) initially viewed puppetry as an independent art form, developing a rich theatrical tradition. Later, some educators in East Germany and Russia began using puppets as a handcraft activity for child education.
    - Puppet shows based on animal and fairy tales became popular, leading to children creating puppets and narrating stories themselves.
    - Puppetry is now a strong medium for child education in these countries.
    - In England, Philip Pot conducted numerous experiments with educational puppets, even using them to uncover children's psychological issues.
    - In Italy, some schools plan to teach all subjects through puppets.
    - Puppets are also used in the treatment of mental patients in countries like France, Germany, Russia, England, and Czechoslovakia.
  - Indian Context (Indian Lok Kala Mandal):
    - Padmashri Devendra Lal Samar at the Indian Lok Kala Mandal has conducted significant experiments in the educational use of puppets.
    - The Govind Puppet Training Center has trained artists and teachers from various states and even foreign countries.
    - Experiments have been conducted for both child and adult education.
    - The Rajasthan Higher Secondary Board has recognized puppetry as a subject for 9th and 10th graders, validating these training centers.
Conclusion and Caveats:
- The educational utility of these folk arts is undeniable.
- However, to effectively utilize them for education, a specific artistic perspective is crucial, which is not inherent in everyone.
- Collaboration with experienced artists who also have teaching and training expertise is essential.
- Without this specialized approach, these arts risk losing their original beauty and could even prove detrimental to education rather than beneficial.

In essence, the book advocates for a revival and reorientation of folk performing arts, moving them from the periphery of cultural expression to the forefront of educational practice, leveraging their inherent storytelling, visual, and performative qualities to enrich learning experiences for all ages.