Unveiling the silent stories of women’s experiences in Bengali Folklore/ বাংলা রূপকথার আড়ালে নারীমনের অব্যক্ত কিছুকথা

Abstract

Fairy tales are intertwined with the sweet memories of human childhood. Due to the fantastical world and unrealistic characters presented in fairy tales, many consider them suitable only for children. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that these stories often reflect real-life issues beneath their fantastical surface. In Bengali fairy tales, there is a close connection with women. The central themes of these tales revolve around women, and for centuries, women have primarily carried these stories forward through oral tradition.

           In pre-colonial Indian society, women’s basic rights, such as education, artistic expression, and personal freedom, were not recognized. Women were expected to remain under male dominance throughout their lives. Within this specific social context, women have left their mark on Bengali nursery rhymes, songs, folk tales, and fairy tales. These creative works express women’s unspoken pain, exploitation, and oppression through metaphors.

           This discussion focuses on selected Bengali fairy tales to explore women’s social issues, their criminal tendencies, and their perspectives on society. The analysis highlights women’s struggles, marital problems, and the establishment of personal identity within the societal framework.