Gandharva Songs; subaltern's subversion of Hegemony

Abstract

Gandharvas reproduce hegemonic discourses of the upper class and caste in their songs. But their songs also undermine such discourses by representing their real subaltern life marked by double domination and victimization based on class and caste. Such songs primarily deal with the issues of subjugation, marginalization, suffering, pain and poverty and call for equality, liberty and justice. The spontaneity and performativity of Gandharva songs allow the possibility of resistance in the local level. Their songs, though used for the political or cultural purposes of the elites at several occasions in history, show that Gandharvas do not lack the class consciousness but the organized social movement for resistance. Their compromise with the hegemonic structures needs to be understood not only as acceptance of hegemony but also as a strategy for survival in an uneven society. This notion is further underscored by the fact that they have developed their own subculture, own language, rituals and modes of life which can function as the counter hegemonic culture and discourse. Besides, performativity of their songs generates such power that it is sometimes used by the rulers as a means of expressing and justifying their social position to the public. On the other times, this power of perfomativity shapes the consciousness of their real life condition and the spirit of resistance.