Panchali (narrative form)

Panchali is an oral narrative form of songs and stories in Assamese and Bengali culture.^[1] (panchali gaan collectively refers to the Bengali ballad songs) During a panchali recitation, the singer walks among the listeners making gestures to accompany the story.^[2] The tradition is found among both Hindu and Muslim communities.^[3] The themes are typically religious and reflect a variety of impacts on the culture through a period of several centuries.^[4] Some focus on the duties of a good wife.^[1]

Interspersed in the presentation of Bengali folk opera, there are frequently breaks which are filled with panchali and other forms of songs.^[5] The panchali is followed by the singing of a religious song in Assam.^[6]

Some popular Bengali "panchali"s include Lokkhir panchali (The Ballad of Goddess Lakshmi), Sriram panchali (The Ballad Lord Rāma), Bishohorir panchali (The Ballad of Goddess Manasā).