Mandi (November 25, 2024)
Nestled in the serene valleys of Himachal Pradesh lies the historic town of Mandi, a place renowned for its timeless art, vibrant culture and rich traditions. Among its gems is Vinod Bahl, a name that resonates as strongly with Mandiali poetry as it once did with the legal profession. Born on June 1, 1954, to Naina Devi and Thakur Prasad Bahl, Vinod grew up in the heart of Mandi, absorbing the nuances of its unique dialect, traditions and folklore.
After serving as a District Attorney, Bahl retired in 2012 and began an extraordinary journey. While many settle into a quieter life post-retirement, Vinod found a new purpose at 62, taking up the pen to write poetry in Mandiali, a dialect often overshadowed by more dominant languages.
Weaving stories on spirit of Mandi
Vinod Bahl’s poetry reflects the spirit of Mandi, weaving stories of its history, art, cuisine and the vanishing Mandiali dialect. What makes his work unique is its accessibility; written in simple, conversational language, his verses strike a chord with readers across generations.
His debut poetry collection “Bhata Ri Ghed”, published in 2016, brought Mandiali literature into the spotlight. Through his humorous and heartfelt poems, Bahl not only preserves the dialect but also makes it appealing to the youth. His YouTube channel of the same name further amplifies this mission, offering a treasure trove of videos showcasing Mandiali poems and cultural narratives. At present, his Facebook page has around two lakh views.
Opens ‘Old Boys Band’ with other retirees
Bahl’s creative pursuits go beyond poetry. As the founder of the Old Boys Band, he collaborates with fellow retirees to produce Mandiali songs that celebrate the region’s ethos. Remarkably, the band members, with an average age of over 70, have performed more than 25 times on prestigious platforms, including seven consecutive years at the International Shivratri Fair.
Their songs, 12 of which have been composed by Umesh Bhardwaj, blend traditional themes with contemporary appeal. The album “Mandiali Beats”, arranged by renowned music composer Somdev Kashyap, has become a cultural milestone. Bahl’s band exemplifies how age is no barrier to artistic expression and community contribution.
Vinod Bahl’s commitment extends to social causes, particularly in promoting environmental awareness. During a cleanliness drive, he addressed nearly 7,000 students across 22 schools in Mandiali, sparking conversations about sustainability in a dialect they hold dear. His efforts earned widespread recognition in the media, showcasing how language can be a powerful tool for change.
Honoured by the Rotary Club Mandi and Hridayvasi Seva Samiti, Bahl continues to inspire others through his dedication to preserving Mandi’s heritage.
Preserving culture for future generations
Despite his achievements, Bahl remains tireless. Currently, he is working on three new books in Mandiali, a testament to his unyielding passion for the dialect. His goal is clear: to ensure that the next generation recognizes the beauty and importance of Mandi’s cultural roots.
“Mandiali isn’t just a dialect; it’s the soul of Mandi,” he says. “If we lose our language, we lose our identity.” At 70, Vinod Bahl embodies resilience, creativity and an unwavering commitment to his community. His transformation from a legal professional to a cultural icon is a story of reinvention and purpose.
