The _Padakalpataru_, to keep up the metaphor of its name
throughout, is divided into 4 _??akhas_ or 'branches,' and each of
these into 8 or 10 _pallabas_ or smaller branches, 'boughs.' It
should be explained that the k?®rtans are celebrated with considerable
ceremony. There is first a consecration both of the performers and
instruments with flowers, incense, and sweetmeats. This is called the
_adhib??s_. The principal performer then sings one song after
another, the others playing the drum and cymbals in time, and joining
in the chorus; as the performance goes on many of them get excited and
wildly frantic, and roll about on the ground. When the performance is
over the drum is respectfully sprinkled with _chandana_ or
sandalwood paste, and hung up. Several performances go on for days
till a whole ? akh?? has been sung through, and I believe it is always
customary to go through at least one Pallab at a sitting, however long
it may be. The Bengali K?®rtan in fact resembles very much the Bhajans
and Kath??s common in the Mar??.
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