Bratathakuranir Hut by Indira Mukhopadhyay [Hardcover]

"In the conventional mindset of so-called rationalists, gods, folk deities, pseudo-deities, and sub-deities can perhaps be dismissed with a mere wave of the hand. But then, all discussions related to folk culture and its indigenous beliefs would also become false. However, despite the rationalists’ disregard, there is an attempt to set up the stall of Brat Thakurani's market. Some say that there is no need for excessive discussion on pseudo-deities, as it will set society back. But is that really the case? Rabindranath Tagore once said, 'In the folk culture of the country, there are numerous remnants of past eras that can serve as valuable material for writing the full history of our nation. These remnants must be collected by traveling through villages.' This book includes detailed accounts of such pseudo-deities. Furthermore, in the popular aspects of our social and religious life, many gods and deities have emerged, with their worship, spread, and evolution involving various elements that are widely cherished. These include safeguarding from natural calamities or ensuring protection from animals, birds, and insects. Over time, these folk beliefs, especially in remote rural areas, have become ingrained in local traditions. These folk deities are associated with the lives of agricultural communities, forest dwellers, boatmen, and fishermen, from the southern part of West Bengal to the north and the Rarh region. This book presents the stories of 37 such folk deities. Also included are stories of several rituals and festivals of the indigenous tribal communities."