The Unchained Bird

Bauls are a group of itinerant mystic singers who have been wandering from one Bengali village to another for centuries, extolling the ways of love. This unique community has a rich cultural heritage that developed over a long period. Their way of life has formed through direct and indirect interactions of ritualistic and cultural folk beliefs and ideas. The word Baul literally means "mentally disturbed," with a connotation of frenzied behavior. The Bauls, "God's Madmen," follow no doctrine and preach no religion. On the contrary, they stand against all forms of social or religious sectarianism. Freedom of the spirit is theirs by-word. They are known for their unconventional lifestyle and a different approach to religion. The true beauty of the Baul lies in their free spirit. They do not believe in rules and regulations that are part of orthodox religions.