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_askthebookbug 's review for:
Timeless Tales from Marwar
by Vijaydan Detha
• r e v i e w •
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I grew up listening to my grandfather's animated voice narrating folktales that spanned over cities and borders. When I close my eyes and concentrate, I can still hear his voice in my head; a low hum that brings a smile to my face. Timeless Tales from Marwar is a collection of 17 short stories that lights up one's imagination, instantly making us feel like children. These stories are taken from the iconic Vijaydan Detha's renowned work 'Batan ri Phulwari' written in Rajasthani. Although Vijaydan, fondly known as Bijji graduated in Hindi, his heart was set on the oral retelling of Rajasthani folktales. Translated to English by Vishes Kothari, this book is as vibrant as it's cover.
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Bijji often enjoyed sitting and spending time with women whom he considered as master storytellers and as one reads this book, it becomes abundantly clear as to why he was of that opinion. While most of the stories were purely entertaining, few pointed out the contrast between castes and human behaviour in general. From evil witches to princes, lice to a smart boy, this book was a real delight to read. Bijji also goes to show how humans were initially selfless, content with their resources, never wanting anything more. But as the next generations came along, there was a considerable shift in their needs and wants. Bijji's style of writing was light and often, humourous. He gave voice to animals of all kinds ranging from jackal to crow to even lice! There's no common ground for these stories and maybe this is why one gets lost in the book easily.
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Kothari has translated the book delicately, carrying out the flavours that Bijji originally added to the book. Be it the description of food or the use of onomatopoeic words, he has successfully managed to keep the very essence of the folktales alive and kicking. As translators, there's tremendous pressure on their shoulders to not let the originality slip away and Kothari has proven to be not only efficient but also thoughtful and respectful in admiring the State's beauty and culture. I definitely recommend this. A refreshing read that'll transport you back to your gleeful days of childhood.
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Rating : 4.3/5.
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I grew up listening to my grandfather's animated voice narrating folktales that spanned over cities and borders. When I close my eyes and concentrate, I can still hear his voice in my head; a low hum that brings a smile to my face. Timeless Tales from Marwar is a collection of 17 short stories that lights up one's imagination, instantly making us feel like children. These stories are taken from the iconic Vijaydan Detha's renowned work 'Batan ri Phulwari' written in Rajasthani. Although Vijaydan, fondly known as Bijji graduated in Hindi, his heart was set on the oral retelling of Rajasthani folktales. Translated to English by Vishes Kothari, this book is as vibrant as it's cover.
.
Bijji often enjoyed sitting and spending time with women whom he considered as master storytellers and as one reads this book, it becomes abundantly clear as to why he was of that opinion. While most of the stories were purely entertaining, few pointed out the contrast between castes and human behaviour in general. From evil witches to princes, lice to a smart boy, this book was a real delight to read. Bijji also goes to show how humans were initially selfless, content with their resources, never wanting anything more. But as the next generations came along, there was a considerable shift in their needs and wants. Bijji's style of writing was light and often, humourous. He gave voice to animals of all kinds ranging from jackal to crow to even lice! There's no common ground for these stories and maybe this is why one gets lost in the book easily.
.
Kothari has translated the book delicately, carrying out the flavours that Bijji originally added to the book. Be it the description of food or the use of onomatopoeic words, he has successfully managed to keep the very essence of the folktales alive and kicking. As translators, there's tremendous pressure on their shoulders to not let the originality slip away and Kothari has proven to be not only efficient but also thoughtful and respectful in admiring the State's beauty and culture. I definitely recommend this. A refreshing read that'll transport you back to your gleeful days of childhood.
.
Rating : 4.3/5.