introduction
The term karhale is derived from the word ‘karhal.’ In Rajasthani and Sindhi, ‘karhal’ or ‘karha’ refers to a camel. Bhai Kahn Singh Nabha has also interpreted this word as ‘camel.’ In the Guru Granth Sahib also, ‘karhal’ refers to camel:
haü hari binu khinu palu rahi na sakaü jaise karhalu beli rījhāī.1. -Guru Granth Sahib 369.
In earlier times, traders loaded their goods on camels to sell them far and wide. These traders would roam distant lands, struggling through the difficulties of the long journey. To relieve their fatigue and boredom or express their feelings, they sang songs narrating the painful journey abroad and the harsh climate of the deserts. Since they spent extended time away from their friends and family, these songs also ...