Volume-II, Special Issue, February 2026
Novel Insights A Peer-Reviewed Quarterly Multidisciplinary Research Journal |
Volume-II, Special Issue, February 2026 |
The Spirit of the Land: Folktales of Northeast India and their Ecological Wisdom Prasenjit Sarkar, Student, Department of English, University of Gour Banga, West Bengal, India Email: prasenjit9654sarkar@gmail.com |
Received: 01.01.2026 | Accepted: 20.02.2026 | Published Online: 28.02.2026 |
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Abstract | ||
Folktales originating from Northeast India play a crucial role in conveying indigenous knowledge, ecological insights, and spiritual beliefs. Based on oral traditions, the stories demonstrate the deep connection among nature, spirituality, and human life. This paper shows how folktales from various ethnic groups, like the Khasi, Mizo, Ao Naga, Bodo, and Meitei-represent ideas of animism, environmental ethics, and moral lessons. In these folktale stories, nature is frequently depicted as a living being, with mountains, rivers, forests, and animals having sacred importance. Supernatural entities, including guardian spirits and gods, supervise the natural world, reinforcing the idea between humanity and the environment. Animistic beliefs, which suggest that sprits reside in natural elements, influence indigenous perspectives and promote ecological harmony. Through studies of folktales such as The Legend of U Thlen (Khasi), The Spirit Tiger (Naga and Mizo), The Goddess of Weaving (Meitei), and some other references this paper examines how these tales acts as means for moral and cultural preservation. Beyond being mere narratives, these folktales offer ethical guidelines, cautioning against environmental destruction and advocating for sustainable behaviors. As modernization endangers oral traditions, grasping and safeguarding these stories is essential for preserving indigenous identity and ecological wisdom. By investigating the connection between folklore, spirituality, and environmental consciousness, this paper highlights the lasting significance of Northeast Indian folktales in current discourses on culture and environment. Keywords: Ecological Consciousness, Environmental ethics, Human-Nature Relationship, Northeast Indian Folktales, Animism | ||