The ancient art of storytelling remains a vital medium for teaching values and fostering cultural understanding

Folklores, the traditional stories, myths, and legends passed down through generations, have long been a source of fascination, serving as much more than mere entertainment. Folklores often centre on ordinary people who face adversity yet find ways to overcome it, reflecting everyday life’s common struggles and aspirations. This relatability comforts those who feel isolated in their struggles, showing that they are not alone and that their challenges are shared across time and place.

One of folklore’s most significant aspects is its inherent simplicity, which makes it a powerful tool for education across generations. Folklores are often crafted to be relatable, encapsulating moral lessons or practical wisdom in a format accessible to children and adults alike. This accessibility makes folklore an effective educational medium, especially in regions where formal education might be limited.

Through memorable characters, narratives, and morals, folklores teach honesty, bravery, kindness, and empathy lessons crucial to shaping young minds. Folklore holds a unique power: it reflects past wisdom, inspires critical thinking, and provides a mirror for self-reflection.  

Indian folklore is a repository of India’s diverse cultural heritage. They act as a unifying force in a country as diverse as India, with numerous languages, religions, and social norms. They capture the essence of various regional traditions, dialects, and beliefs, weaving together the vast and varied ethos of the country.

Every region, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, has tales that embody local wisdom, rituals, and social customs. Stories like those from the Panchatantra and Jataka Tales have transcended regions, becoming staples of Indian storytelling that educate on universal values while highlighting India’s unique cultural tapestry.

Indian folklore frequently addresses social issues, challenging established norms and encouraging reflection on societal practices. For instance, the folktales of Tenali Rama, the witty advisor in the Vijayanagara Empire, often question the elite’s excesses and promote justice for the common man. Similarly, Birbal, a wise minister in the Mughal court, features in numerous tales that promote intellectual equality. These stories teach Indians to value wit, intelligence, and fairness, subtly questioning the authority of those in power.

By embedding reformist ideas within entertaining narratives, Indian folklores provide a soft yet powerful critique of societal hierarchies, encouraging progressive thinking.

Many Indian folklore emphasize the bond between humans and nature, imparting lessons on environmental stewardship that resonate with India’s agrarian roots. Stories about sacred rivers, protective spirits, or revered animals highlight the belief that natural entities are to be respected and cared for.

These tales often highlight shared human experiences, bridging cultural gaps and fostering a sense of collective identity. Folklore serves as a reservoir of collective wisdom, transcending time and geography to educate and reform society. Its remarkable ability to touch hearts, prompt reflection, and inspire action makes it indispensable in both formal and informal education. In an era dominated by digital technology, folklore may seem antiquated, yet its relevance has only deepened. Modern storytellers, educators, and social reformers can adapt folklore for contemporary audiences, harnessing its emotive power to foster empathy and awareness.

(The writer, is the Dean,  academic affairs, at Garden City University, views are personal)