Renowned Mand folk singer Gavri Devi dies

Renowned Mand folk singer Gavri Devi passed away at 98 in Pali, Rajasthan. Celebrated for preserving and popularising the traditional Mand music form, her decades-long contribution earned nationwide recognition and heartfelt tributes from political leaders and the cultural community

Jaipur: Renowned Mand folk singer Gavri Devi, who earned nationwide recognition for her contribution to traditional music, has died at the age of 98. The musician breathed her last at her residence in Pali on Thursday evening.

She had remained active in Mand singing for several decades and captivated audiences across the country with her performances.

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Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma expressed grief over Devi’s death, calling it an irreparable loss to Rajasthan’s cultural heritage and the folk music. “The news of the demise of Pali’s renowned Mand singer Gavri Devi is extremely sad. Her passing is an irreparable loss to the folk music world and the cultural heritage of Rajasthan,” Sharma said.

Sharma said Devi gave Rajasthan’s rich cultural traditions a new identity through her melodious voice and dedication to folk music. “Her invaluable contribution to the preservation and promotion of folk art will always be remembered. Her musical legacy will continue to inspire future generations,” he added.

Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot also condoled her death, saying Devi played a significant role in popularising Mand singing across the world. “Gavri Devi performed Mand singing for several decades and became synonymous with this folk art. Her demise is an irreparable loss to Rajasthan’s art and culture sector,” he said.

One of Devi’s most popular songs is “More Bole Re”.

Mand singing, one of the oldest music traditions to originate from Rajasthan, blends melodious notes, storytelling and folk music traditions. The most recalled song in the Mand style is the ever popular “Kesariya Baalam”.