গল্প-পরিসরে উত্তর-পূর্বের নির্বাচিত লোককথা : একটি পর্যালোচনা/ Selected Folktales of the Northeast : A Review

Abstract

The North-Eastern region serves as the homeland for a diverse array of ethnic groups and tribes. In particular, the cultures of these indigenous communities have evolved into the distinct, intrinsic heritage of the North-East. Just as every ethnic group possesses its own unique folk-cultural traditions, the indigenous communities of the North-East—such as the Khasi, Karbi, Dimasa, and Manipuri—maintain a distinct identity defined by their specific dietary habits, rituals, beliefs, folklore, and artistic expressions.The distinctiveness of North-Eastern literature lies in several key characteristics: its geographical setting, its deep engagement with nature, the enduring consequences of the Partition, and its rich diversity in terms of folk culture and language. North-Eastern literature is by no means dominated solely by narratives concerning the lives of Bengalis; rather, the literary endeavors of Bengali writers in the region have consistently incorporated and given voice to the life stories of various indigenous communities.The folktails of various ethnic groups of northeast very popular among the people

        As stories originally written in various regional languages ​​are translated into Bengali, the body of translated literature continues to grow and enrich itself constantly. Furthermore, ‘Little Magazines’ play a particularly significant role in fostering and sustaining the literary landscape of the North-Eastern region.These characteristics of folklore are exemplified in the story 'Naubikau' where Bahun transforms into a bird. In the tale 'Harif and Dumaidi', the primacy of events in shaping the characters' ultimate destinies is clearly evident; the protagonists are inextricably intertwined with the unfolding incidents. Indeed, despite initially confronting various tribulations, characters such as Bahun—as well as Harif and Dumaidi—ultimately discover a path to overcome their crises. Harif and Dumaidi, in particular, experience a sweet and happy resolution to their lives. Conversely, the story 'Hazari Birpurush' shines as a quintessential example of a complete narrative; through the diverse experiences of its characters, it beautifully reflects the structural unity of a story—encompassing a distinct beginning, middle, and end.

              These folktales can be described as being deeply consonant with local traditions. Just as elements of the supernatural are presented as a reality within these narratives, so too do animal and bird characters play a prominent role. These folktales from the Northeast—much like the folklore prevalent among indigenous communities across the globe—circulate within society, distinguished by their own unique characteristics. Indeed, these folktales may aptly be described as the very milestones defining the cultural identity of every indigenous tribe in the Northeast.