Around the Hearth: Khasi Legends

Discover the ancient wisdom and captivating tales of the Khasi people in “Around the Hearth: Khasi Legends” by acclaimed poet and writer Kynpham Sing Nongkynrih. Immerse yourself in a world where stories were the vessels of God’s word and where storytelling was an art mastered by the Khasis long before the arrival of the white man.

In this remarkable book, Nongkynrih unveils the secret behind the survival of the Khasi storytelling tradition, even in the absence of a written script. Delving into a tapestry of myths and legends, he brings to life a vibrant cast of characters: from deities and impoverished villagers to sentient trees and conversing tigers. Within these enchanting narratives lies a profound philosophy that continues to shape the Khasi community’s moral principles and daily lives.

With lyrical prose and deep reverence for nature, Nongkynrih paints a vivid portrait of a society where wisdom and civilized conduct reigned amidst an era dominated by brute force. The Khasis’ reverence for God, man, and the natural world imbues every tale, inviting readers to explore a culture that celebrated unity among all living beings.

“Around the Hearth: Khasi Legends” is an extraordinary journey into a rich oral tradition, where fables of love and jealousy, hatred and forgiveness, evil and redemption intertwine with the heartbeat of a resilient community. Join Nongkynrih on this literary voyage and unlock the timeless wisdom that echoes through the Khasi people’s cherished stories, resonating even in the modern world.