Folk literature, culture, and traditions are not created by us, but rather they evolve on their own : Prof Vibha Sharma

Aligarh Bureau : Renowned Hindi writer and former Chairperson of the Department of Hindi at Jamia Millia Islamia, Professor Abdul Bismillah said the emotional world of folk literature varies among different communities, and it is our task to understand these emotions and study them collectively.

Addressing the valedictory session of the two day national seminar on ‘Folk Literature – Dimensions of High Culture, Diversity, and Challenges’ organized by the Department of Hindi, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Prof Bismillah called for more original literary analysis of folk literature in the country.

Professor Ved Prakash said determining the history of folk literature is one of the biggest challenges, as compiling folk literature impartially is a monumental task.

Professor Tasneem Suhail noted that folk literature provides fertile ground for other types of literature. “Folk literature is fundamental to us, paving the way for other literary works”, she said.

Professor Tariq Chhatari stated that folk tales not only entertain us but also lead us to history. Quoting from numerous folk tales, he mentioned that many proverbs and sayings have originated from folk literature.

Professor Mohammad Ashiq Ali, Chairperson of the Department of Hindi, AMU emphasized the importance of being alert about folk subjects. “We must observe folk literature with awareness,” he added.

Professor Shambhunath Tiwari proposed a vote of thanks, while Dr. Javed Alam conducted the session.

Earlier in the technical session, the session chair Professor Rameshchandra Sharma explained the difference between folk literature and literature, stating that folk literature explores life through various events from birth to death.

Professor Vibha Sharma from the Department of English, Member Incharge, Public Relations, AMU said the folk literature, culture, and traditions are not created by us, but rather they evolve on their own. She underscored the importance of preserving folk art, stressing that “we must visit villages to meet the folk artists, spend time with them to understand and appreciate folk drama and its nuances and devise strategies to preserve it”.

Dr Shivchand Prakash stated that to understand the nation, society, and culture, it is essential to know folk literature. “Where the pages of history fall silent, the folk begins”, he noted.

Dr. Javed Alam presented his views on the role of folk culture in Hindi criticism, while Dr. Sana Fatima spoke on the Mewati folk Mahabharata: Pandun Ka Kada.

During the closing ceremony, Dr. Noor Afshan’s book ‘Abdul Bismillah’s Story Literature: Realism’ was released.