The Enchanting Tale of 'Pandun ka Kada'

 

The Mahabharata, one of the two primary Smriti texts and Sanskrit epics of ancient India, recounts the events and consequences of the Kurukshetra War. Over time, various regional adaptations of this epic have emerged, with "Pandun ka Kada" standing as an example—a Mewati version of the Mahabharata ballads sung by the Meos. The Meo community, primarily inhabit in the Mewat region spanning parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, embodies a distinctive identity characterized by a fusion of Hindu and Muslim ethos.

"Pandun ka Kada," a mesmerizing performance by the Jogia and Meos of Mewat, weaves together a rich tapestry of over 2000 dohas (couplets). These poetic verses come alive during communal gatherings in village squares, the joyous atmosphere of weddings, the sacred rites of postnatal ceremonies, and the jubilation of festive occasions. In return for their captivating artistry, the Jogia and Meos receive a humble offering of grains and essential provisions.

Panduan ka Kada performance.
Image credit - Ministry of culture govt of India

"Pandun ka Kada" charts its own course, diverging from the familiar Mahabharata narrative in distinctive ways; much like a myriad of retellings, its episodes meander independently before intricately weaving back into the tapestry of a narrative that is both novel and widely embraced. The tale unfolds against the backdrop of an exchange between Guru Gorakhnath and his disciples, who yearn to explore the complexities of worldly existence. Yielding to their curiosity, Guru Gorakhnath transports them to the ancient city of Hastinapur. In this narrative tapestry, the Mahabharata gracefully unfolds its epic saga, offering a unique viewpoint through the discerning eyes of Guru Gorakhnath, enriching the art of story retelling. In "Pandun ka Kada," the enmity sparks with Bheema astride the majestic Airavata, shattering the mud elephant crafted by Duryodhana for Gandhari—a symbolic genesis for the profound feud between the Pandavas and Kauravas. In contrast to mainstream Mahabharata interpretations, where event of Draupadi's cheer haran often take centre stage as the primary instigators of conflict, this rendition unveils a different narrative tapestry, weaving its own threads of intrigue and drama.

A Miniature Painting from Mewar region depicting the war scene from
Mahabharata, from the collection of  Allahabad Museum

This rendition not only captivates the audience but also serves as a poetic bridge, connecting the spiritual teachings with the vivid realities of life portrayed in the Mahabharata. Through the melodic verses of "Pandun ka Kada," the Jogia and Meos evoke a sense of artistry that resonates beyond mere performance, creating a cultural experience that lingers in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness it.

In the rich tapestry of history, it is often told that during the sixteenth century, the visionary poet Sadullah Khan took on the honorable task of documenting a treasured tradition. However, the hands of time have veiled any remnants of manuscripts, allowing the legacy of this oral narrative to gracefully waltz through the corridors of memory across generations. Traditionally associated with Arjuna through the Pandun ka Kada, the Meos are now undergoing a shift in narrative as epics like Shamsher Pathan and Behram Badshah gain prominence, hinting at potential Arabian origins.

In the contemporary landscape, this tradition, once a vibrant heartbeat, finds itself withering in the shadows, its audience and practitioners dwindling. A glimmer of hope arises in the form of "Jogiyaar Mahabharata," a creation by the Swayambhu Foundation in New Delhi. This artistic endeavor unfolds as a national overture, seeking to rekindle the flame of "Pandun ka Kada," breathing life anew into its fading echoes and providing a resplendent stage for the artists who carry its essence.

 - Sumit Das

Bibliography

1.      Naqvi, Saba. ‘Meet the Muslims Who Consider Themselves Descendants of Arjuna’. Scroll.in, March 30, 2016. Retrieved on 21/01/2024. https://scroll.in/article/805833/meet-the-muslims-who-consider-themselves-descendants-of-arjuna.

2.      Garima Raghuvanshy. ‘Pandun ka Kada: A Fascinating Tradition in Fraught Times’. Sahapediam.org, January 14, 2020. Retrieved on 20/01/2024. https://www.sahapedia.org/pandun-ka-kada-fascinating-tradition-fraught-times

3.      Mahabharata. Wikipedia, retrieved on 20/01/2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahabharata#External_links

4.      National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage https://blog.parivarthanias.com/national-list-for-intangible-cultural-heritage-ich/