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Niranjan Bhore Takes the Powada to Church
What happens when a performer blends Marathi storytelling with Christian stories?
Niranjan Bhore does just that. In an open mic performance for Faith Unmute, Bhore is seen performing a traditional Marathi poetry style called Powada. Rather than recounting tales of warriors and historical battles, the performance draws upon Christian faith and spirituality, presenting religious themes through a distinctly Maharashtrian cultural lens.
Since the late seventeenth century, poets have used powadas to sing about battles. Over three centuries, they have been a war chronicle, a weapon of satire in Jyotirao Phule’s hands, the soundtrack of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement and a staple of protest stages.
And now, Powadas have found their way into contemporary culture, surprisingly, through a Christian open mic. Faith Unmute is a platform where people share songs, poetry, stand-up, rap and stories. Niranjan Bhore stands up and sings a Christian powada.
What is Powada?
Powada is a traditional form of Marathi folk ballad that celebrates the bravery, courage and achievements of historical heroes. Originating in Maharashtra, Powada combines music, poetry, rhythm and dramatic narration for storytelling. The performers are known as Shahirs. They recite these ballads with great energy and passion, often accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the Dholki and Tuntuna.
This tradition of storytelling is closely associated with the Maratha Empire and the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. One of the most famous Powadas recounts the encounter between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan.
Beyond celebrating historical victories, Powadas have served as a means of preserving Maharashtra’s cultural heritage. Traditionally performed at public gatherings, festivals and cultural celebrations, Powadas continue to hold an important place in Maharashtra’s artistic landscape.
Folk forms only survive because someone carries them into a room they were never meant for, and creates new spaces for their appreciation. Niranjan Bhore’s rendition does exactly that. This performance is a perfect example of how traditional Marathi storytelling can find relevance in contemporary and cross-cultural contexts.
