Folklore Of The Santal Parganas

Book excerpt: "Folklore of the Santal Parganas" is a notable work by Cecil Henry Bompas, an English missionary and ethnographer who dedicated his life to studying and documenting the culture and folklore of the Santal people. The book presents a collection of traditional stories, myths, legends, and customs of the Santal community in the Parganas region of present-day Jharkhand, India. Bompas spent several years living among the Santal people, immersing himself in their way of life and establishing close relationships with the community. He gained their trust and was able to record their rich oral traditions, preserving them for future generations. "Folklore of the Santal Parganas" serves as a comprehensive repository of Santal folklore, encompassing a wide range of subjects, including creation myths, heroic tales, supernatural beings, rituals, and social customs. Bompas' work not only highlights the cultural heritage of the Santal people but also provides valuable insights into their worldview, beliefs, and practices. His meticulous documentation of Santal folklore contributes to the broader field of ethnography and folklore studies, enabling a deeper understanding of the Santal community's traditions and their place within the larger tapestry of Indian folklore. "Folklore of the Santal Parganas" remains an important resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts interested in Indian folklore, anthropology, and cultural studies.