In a tribute to Himachal Pradesh’s rich cultural legacy, Education Minister Rohit Thakur today released the folk album song “Thundal Gatha”, composed and sung by Chirag Jyoti Majhta. The Minister praised the song as a heartfelt portrayal of the region’s ancient folklore, cultural richness, and historical depth.
The track is based on a 700-year-old folk tale from the village of Thundal, located in the Chopal Assembly Constituency of Shimla district. The Minister, whose own ancestral roots trace back to Thundal, expressed deep appreciation for the creative team behind the project. He noted that the song revives the heroic saga of resistance and migration rooted in local history, ensuring that such timeless stories continue to inspire future generations.
“Thundal Gatha” recounts the tale of Bidan, the village head of Thundal, who defies the then ruler by refusing to pay land revenue (lagan), triggering a confrontation that leads to the burning of the village by the royal army. The aftermath of this conflict forced the villagers to migrate to distant places like Barthata (Jubbal), Kathwar (Sirmaur), and the Balsan area. This dramatic retelling stands as a symbol of resilience, self-respect, and cultural pride.
Minister Thakur emphasized that the song, sung in the traditional musical style of the region, not only preserves oral history and folklore, but also strengthens the bond between the present and the past. He congratulated Chirag Jyoti Majhta for lending voice to the words of late storyteller Meena Ram Sanghaik, and commended the team for maintaining authenticity and dedication in their artistic efforts.
He added that such cultural initiatives are instrumental in keeping Himachal’s folk traditions alive, especially by engaging the youth and helping them reconnect with their heritage, values, and community identity.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
