Puku (Surinamese traditional music)

Puku is a traditional musical style from Suriname that features lively rhythms and expressive melodies, often performed with percussion instruments like drums and the wooden slit drums called "kabang" or "bakaba." It reflects the cultural diversity of Suriname’s communities, blending African, Indigenous, and Asian influences. Puku is typically associated with communal celebrations, rituals, and storytelling, serving as a means of preserving history and cultural identity. Its energetic tempo and compelling rhythms encourage participation and dance, making it a vibrant expression of Suriname’s rich cultural heritage.