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Powada

Epic and Heroic Narrative

Powada is a genre of Marathi poetry that rose to prominence during the late seventeenth century in India. Its name means to glorify, and it functions as a traditional Marathi ballad tracing its history back more than 750 years. Powadas typically glorified the deeds of popular folk figures and leaders, such as Chhatrapati Shivaji and Tanaji Malusare, and were also composed to raise awareness of social issues. A genre of the same name is also popular in the Indian state of Uttarakhand, particularly in the Kumaon and Garhwal regions, where it likewise glorifies warriors and is sung, performed, or narrated on various occasions.

Facts
Place of Origin
India (Marathi tradition) 1
Notable Example
The Killing of Afzal Khan 1
Defining Trait
Glorifies the deeds of popular folk figures and leaders 1
In the Other Atlases
Sources
1. Powada - Wikipedia
  • Lead, first sentence
    genre of Marathi poetry
  • Details, Powada during Maratha Empire
    The earliest notable powada was The Killing of Afzal Khan
  • Lead, second sentence
    Powadas often glorified and celebrated deeds of popular folk figures and leaders
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