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An interactive digital storybook based on mythology from the Sunderbans. Assam, and Nagaland
Alafiya Hasan, Shrivathsa M.S, Alita Dharmaraj
PREMISE
For my Master's thesis project at NID, I had two primary areas of interest that I wanted to merge: folklore, and endangered environments.
After the 2020 floods in Assam and the rapid soil erosion of coastal areas in India, I was compelled to use folklore as a means to reiterate man's ancient and unbreakable connection to nature.
My research led me to the Sunderbans delta, home to the largest mangrove forests and the curious Bonbibi, a local deity whose gospel tied the very diverse population of the Sunderbans together. My project was inspired, in part, by her myth, and the slowly drowning landscape of the Sunderbans.
via SacredLand
RESEARCH
My aim was to write a folktale that felt like an old Panchatantra story but to juxtapose it with modern context to give it more relevance. In order to write this, I researched several aspects, briefly summarized here:
Forests & Soil Erosion
Coastal soil erosion has been an issue across India for decades. Over recent years, this has led to immense flooding.
Bonbibi & Sunderbans
I read much about Bonbibi's myth, origins, and the ecology and diversity of the Sunderbans themeselves.
Sacred Groves
Several forest areas in India have been protected Sacred Groves, these are biodiversity hotspots and have religious importance.
Man & Nature (Myths)
As an extention, I read several myths from Assam and Nagaland pertaining to what ties men and nature together
Other Projects
i looked into work such as Tara Douglas's tribal animation PhD project and Tara Book's catalogue of indigenous stories
Traditional Medicine
An important aspect to sacred groves and traditional practice is the medicinal uses of herbs found only in specific forests and lands.
DOCUMENTATION
To read about my full process and research, please read my thesis document!
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