A Window into Rajasthan's Unique Mourning Culture - Rudaali

Rudaali: A Window into Rajasthan's Unique Mourning Culture


"Rudaali," a classic Hindi film released in 1993, directed by Kalpana Lajmi and based on a short story by renowned Bengali writer Mahasweta Devi, provides a poignant portrayal of a unique mourning culture that exists in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. 

The movie explores the lives of a group of women known as "rudaalis" who are hired to cry and mourn at funerals, especially those of the rich and well-known individuals in the region. 

This practice, although fading, continues to be a significant aspect of Rajasthan's cultural landscape.

The Rudaali Tradition:

The term "rudaali" is derived from the Hindi words "rud," which means to cry, and "daali," which means a woman. 

Rudaalis are professional mourners hired to express grief and sorrow during funerals. 

This tradition has been prevalent in certain parts of Rajasthan for centuries. 

The primary role of rudaalis is to wail, beat their chests, and lament loudly to intensify the mourning atmosphere at a funeral. 

They often sing elegies that recount the life and virtues of the deceased.

In the movie "Rudaali," the protagonist Shanichari, played by Dimple Kapadia, is a rudaali who becomes entangled in the complexities of her profession and the emotions it stirs within her. 

Through her character, the film delves into the life of these women who are often considered outcasts in society but play an essential role in helping the bereaved families express their grief.

Cultural Significance:

The rudaali tradition is deeply rooted in the social and cultural fabric of Rajasthan.

It serves several purposes within the region's mourning rituals:

Emotional Release: 

Rajasthanis believe that the presence of rudaalis allows family members to express their grief more freely. 

The professional mourners give voice to the emotions that can be difficult to express during the highly emotional time of a funeral.

Social Hierarchy: 

Rudaalis, while essential for their role, occupy a lowly status in society. 

This practice reflects the hierarchical structure of Rajasthan's traditional society, where certain communities were historically relegated to specific occupations.

Artistic Expression: 

The songs and lamentations performed by rudaalis are an integral part of Rajasthan's folk culture. 

These elegies often extol the virtues and achievements of the deceased, celebrating their life in a unique artistic manner.

Changing Times:

While "Rudaali" captures the essence of this unique mourning culture, it's important to note that this tradition has been diminishing over the years.

Modernization, urbanization, and changing attitudes have led to a decline in the demand for rudaalis at funerals. 

Additionally, efforts have been made to empower women from these communities through education and alternative livelihoods, reducing their reliance on this traditional profession.

"Rudaali" offers a poignant glimpse into a distinctive aspect of Rajasthan's cultural heritage. 

The film explores the lives and emotions of professional mourners while shedding light on the social hierarchy and emotional release that this tradition provides.

Although the rudaali tradition is gradually fading in the face of societal changes, it remains a testament to the complexity and richness of Rajasthan's cultural tapestry. 

The movie serves as a reminder of the need to both preserve and evolve cultural practices in the ever-changing landscape of modern India.