The Path of the Mystic Lover

Carrying on the living tradition of mystic minstrels, the Bauls roam the countryside of eastern India spreading the message that communion with the Divine can be found within the body. Influenced by Sufism, Hindu devotionalism, and the Tantric traditions, these "mad" minstrels enact the spiritual love dalliance of Radha and Krishna through songs and dances that have inspired artists as diverse as Rabindranath Tagore, Allen Ginsberg, and Bob Dylan. The Path of the Mystic Lover explores the Bauls' lifestyle and philosophy, describing their sexual and ritual practices as well as their sacred teachings on the nature of passion and the path to ecstasy. Illustrated with striking drawings by Penny Slinger, eighty -four Baul songs are translated from the Bengali and complemented with thorough commentary by the authors.