Govina Haadu: a Unique Folklore Song

Abstract

Karnataka has many folklore songs but when listened to Govina Haadu stands out as a unique and popular. When we dive deep into the song and its musical analysis we discover the richness of its uniqueness and the reason for its popularity. First and foremost this folksong is an end to end song as it has a definite end in the sequence unlike other folksongs. The song depicts the situational morale of Punyakoti as well as the predator, the tiger. Secondly, the rhythm used for Govina Haadu is 7/8 which is unique from western rhythms. This requires the meticulous coordination of musicians and singers, as well as those involved in the dance or performance. 7/8 rhythm applies three and a half notes in a bar, and the beats are 123, 1234. The Pallavi(Chorus) is composed in ‘Natabhairavi Raga’ while Charana (stanza) is in ‘Chaarukeshi Raaga’. In the western music it is written in ‘F Major’ scale. The Govina Haadu folk song has influenced the aborigines of the land to accept, tolerate, and make ways for others to live happily. The ethics of the song is proven in the lives of people of Karnataka.