MYSTERIES, MOUNTAINS AND MYTHOLOGY Uttarakhand’s Folktales Retold

The beauteous Uttarakhand, fringed by the majestic Himalayas, is a treasure trove of folktales passed down through the generations. The state’s dense forests and quiet mountain villages come alive in the pages of Mysteries, Mountains and Mythology, which contain ten timeless tales to enthral young readers. The book celebrates Uttarakhand’s rich culture and oral storytelling traditions by reimagining traditional folktales that carry the wisdom, magic and mystery of the ancient land. Get whisked away to the region’s pristine forests, rivers and mountains. Along the way, meet fascinating demigods, mystical deities, and supernatural creatures drawn from the local myths and legends of Kumaon, Garhwal, Haridwar, and other parts of this enchanting land. • Meet Jeetu, a young farmer, who gets swept away by anccheris (forest sprites). • Laugh at the misadventures of the wealthy Lacchuwa’s dim-witted sons. • Find out why the Pyoli flower is named after a young girl raised in the Himalayan foothills. • Discover how a shoemaker produces gold bangles and later becomes a poet-saint. • Get entertained by the tall tales spun by four travellers as they traverse through the Himalayas. Readers will encounter many such captivating characters in this authentic collection that unravels the glorious tapestry of Uttarakhand’s ancient past. What’s more? Each story contains mouthwatering recipes and folk songs that capture the storied history of the state. Written with emotional depth and wit, the meticulously researched retelling gives new life to some of the most cherished folktales from a beloved state, also known as India’s Devbhoomi.