Revival of Ecological Legends in North East Indian Literature A Study from the Indigenous Women Writers Perspective

Abstract

The Indigenous communities form a major part of the socio-cultural set up of North East India. The members of the communities for whom conservation of nature is not a mere realistic approach, maintain an intimate relationship with nature. Preservation of natural resources is not just a way to ensure sustenance; it is their spiritual practice, a ritualistic way of life. Such ecological understanding is ingrained in the cultural traditions of the communities that are transmitted through myths, folktales and legends from one generation to another. The ancient tropes of storytelling are inseparable part of their customs and practices. North East Indian Literature forms an important part of the canon of Indian English Literature. The bounty of nature and the numerous Indigenous communities that characterize this region are now celebrated in the literary works by the contemporary literary writers of North East India. They have started exploring themes beyond violence, insurgency, social unrest and political upheaval. The ecological degradation and loss of cultural traditions because of the lack of interest in the younger generation now find reflection in the creative writings originating from North East India. The Indigenous writers in specific are demonstrating an attempt to revive the lost culture of their respective communities through their writings. That is why they are making abundant use of myths, legends and folktales of their respective communities in their literary works so that the contemporary generation is made aware of the culture that they have lost touch with. The writers believe that by undertaking such revivalist project through literature, the balance in the natural world can also be brought back because the eco-consciousness of the region is inherent in their cultural traditions. This revivalist trend is centred more towards creating awareness and responsiveness towards such issues amongst the present generation locally and nationally.