Biography
Paban Das Baul brings a contemporary edge to the lush melodic heritage of India’s Bengali region through his command of the dubki, a compact tambourine, and his spellbinding vocal delivery. By merging Tantric Buddhism, Baishnavism and Sufism, he has drawn international notice for performances that induce trance.
He came into the world in Mohammedpur, a modest settlement in the West Bengali district of Murshibadad, and absorbed his musical inclinations from his father, a martial arts champion who took up singing and wrestling for income once his land holdings were gone. From the age of five he played the dubki, guided by Sufi fakirs. At fourteen he received initiation into the Bauls from Subal Das Baul, whom he encountered at a festival.
Collaboration with London-born guitarist Sam Mills, previously a member of the experimental avant-garde outfit 23 Skiddoo from 1979 to 1982, began in 1988 and produced one of the earliest blends of Bengali music with Western pop. His 1997 album Inner Knowledge was captured before a limited audience at the Real World Studios.
He came into the world in Mohammedpur, a modest settlement in the West Bengali district of Murshibadad, and absorbed his musical inclinations from his father, a martial arts champion who took up singing and wrestling for income once his land holdings were gone. From the age of five he played the dubki, guided by Sufi fakirs. At fourteen he received initiation into the Bauls from Subal Das Baul, whom he encountered at a festival.
Collaboration with London-born guitarist Sam Mills, previously a member of the experimental avant-garde outfit 23 Skiddoo from 1979 to 1982, began in 1988 and produced one of the earliest blends of Bengali music with Western pop. His 1997 album Inner Knowledge was captured before a limited audience at the Real World Studios.
Albums
Singles
