Literature As Folk Tradition

At Indian Novels Collective, our effort is to transcend the gap between Indian storytelling and English readers. In collaboration with the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we explored the word that is almost lost to this audience because it does not get written. And yet, it is the most powerful storytelling, connecting to audiences across generations, through the use of music and a true to life imagery. Three genres from India were highlighted in the evening’s performance – the earthy and energetic Bidesia from Bhojpuri, Hindustani Classical Music in the form of Ovis of Bhanibai and Laavni and finally Mithali folk. Here’s a look at the Rameshwar Gop’s rehearsal video, just before the show.