Literature of Jharkhand – Indian literature is renowned for its vastness and diversity, encompassing various regional and tribal literary traditions. Each of these traditions, with its unique cultural nuances, contributes to the richness of Indian literature. Among this vibrant literary mosaic, the literature of Jharkhand occupies a distinctive place.

झारखंड, जो कई जनजातियों का घर है और जिसकी सांस्कृतिक विरासत बहुत गहरी है, का साहित्य इस विविधता को दर्शाता है। संथालों, मुंडाओं और उरांवों की लोक कथाओं और गीतों से लेकर डॉ. राम दयाल मुंडा और विश्वनाथ सहदेव जैसे आधुनिक लेखकों की सशक्त रचनाओं तक, झारखंड का साहित्य कथा शैलियों और विषयों की एक विस्तृत श्रृंखला प्रस्तुत करता है।

The literature of Jharkhand presents a unique amalgamation of tribal traditions and contemporary narratives. It is an essential part of India’s literary tradition, providing a voice to the various tribal communities living in the state.

Rooted in local dialects such as Santhali, Mundari, Nagpuri, Kharia and Ho, Jharkhand’s literature is a fascinating blend of oral folklore, poetry and modern writings.

Famous writers of Jharkhand literature include Dr. Ram Dayal Munda, Vishwanath Sahdeo and Shiv Khera, who have enriched this literary tradition through their thought-provoking works. These writings cover a wide range of topics, from tribal folklore and nature to socio-political issues and identity.

The strength of Jharkhand literature lies in its ability to resonate with the socio-cultural realities of the region, resonate with its tribal ethos and express the aspirations of its people, making it a fascinating part of India’s literary landscape.

Literature of Jharkhand

Jharkhand, the eastern state of India, is known for its diverse cultural heritage and vibrant literary tradition. Jharkhand literature has contributed significantly to the rich fabric of Indian literature with its unique tribal flavour and rural touch. The state is home to a number of tribes such as the Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Ho and Kharia, each with its own distinct dialect and literary tradition. This tribal literature, largely oral, is a repository of folk songs, tales, proverbs and epics that reflect the values, beliefs and lifestyle of the tribes.

भारत का पूर्वी राज्य झारखंड अपनी विविध सांस्कृतिक विरासत और जीवंत साहित्यिक परंपरा के लिए जाना जाता है। झारखंड के साहित्य ने अपने अनूठे आदिवासी स्वाद और ग्रामीण स्पर्श के साथ भारतीय साहित्य के समृद्ध ताने-बाने में महत्वपूर्ण योगदान दिया है। राज्य में संथाल, मुंडा, ओरांव, हो और खारिया जैसी कई जनजातियाँ निवास करती हैं, जिनमें से प्रत्येक की अपनी अलग बोली और साहित्यिक परंपरा है। यह आदिवासी साहित्य, जो काफी हद तक मौखिक है, लोकगीतों, कहानियों, कहावतों और महाकाव्यों का भंडार है जो जनजातियों के मूल्यों, विश्वासों और जीवन शैली को दर्शाता है।

Other prominent writers including Dr. Ram Dayal Munda, Vishwanath Sahadev and Shiv Khera have contributed significantly to the literature of Jharkhand. Their works offer insightful perspectives on the social, cultural and political landscape of the region. The diverse themes explored in Jharkhand literature range from nature and spirituality to social issues and identity politics, reflecting the socio-cultural ethos of the state. Jharkhand literature is unique for its emphasis on communal harmony, respect for nature and depiction of the daily lives and struggles of the common people.

Jharkhand literature’s rich folk and tribal elements, unique dialects and vibrant narratives contribute to its distinctive flavour. Its deep connection with nature, emphasis on communal harmony, exploration of social realities and expression of tribal identity give it a unique voice within Indian literature. In short, Jharkhand literature is not only a part of Indian literature but also an integral part of the state’s cultural identity. It reflects the resilience, creativity and spirit of the people of Jharkhand, making it an essential part of India’s literary heritage.

“Adivasi Astitva aur Jharkhand Asmitake Sawal” by Ramdayal Munda

यह पुस्तक झारखंड के आदिवासी साहित्य का एक मौलिक कार्य है, जो झारखंड और उसके बाहर आदिवासी पहचान और संस्कृति की गहन खोज प्रस्तुत करता है। पुस्तक, छह निबंधों का संग्रह, आदिवासी जीवन के विभिन्न पहलुओं, जिसमें धर्म, राजनीति, भाषा और औद्योगीकरण का प्रभाव शामिल है, की पड़ताल करती है। मुंडा जनजाति के एक प्रसिद्ध भाषाविद् और बुद्धिजीवी मुंडा आदिवासी इतिहास को नए संदर्भों में प्रस्तुत करते हैं, पारंपरिक आख्यानों को चुनौती देते हैं और जोर देते हैं कि भारतीय संस्कृति गैर-आर्यों के संस्कृतीकरण की तुलना में आर्यों के आर्यीकरण से अधिक संबंधित है। पुस्तक झारखंड के ऐतिहासिक परिवर्तन, आदिवासी समुदायों के सामने आने वाली समकालीन चुनौतियों और उनके द्वारा सहे जाने वाले प्रणालीगत अन्याय की आलोचनात्मक जांच करती है। मुंडा का काम आदिवासियों पर हिंदू पहचान थोपने की भी आलोचना करता है 2002 में प्रकाशित होने के बावजूद, पुस्तक की अंतर्दृष्टि आज भी प्रासंगिक है, जो इसे छोटानागपुर क्षेत्र में आदिवासी समुदायों को समझने के लिए एक महत्वपूर्ण संसाधन बनाती है।

Tribal Literature of Jharkhand

The tribal literature of Jharkhand is an important part of the state’s literary tradition, primarily due to its significant tribal population which includes communities such as the Santhals, Mundas, Oraons, Hos, and Kharias. Each of these tribes has its own unique dialect and literary tradition which has been preserved largely through oral transmission.

Diverse and vibrant, Jharkhand’s tribal communities weave intricate literary traditions that reflect their unique heritage, customs and lifestyles. From the Nagpuri to the Ho, each tribal group contributes to the rich fabric of regional literature, nurturing a treasure trove of oral tales, folklore and mythology. Let’s delve into the literary landscape of some of the major tribal communities of Jharkhand:

Nagpuri Literature

Nagpuri literature, enriched by Jharkhand’s rural agrarian society, reverberates with the echoes of folk songs, ballads and oral stories passed down through generations. What makes it special is its close connection to the culture and oral traditions of the region, providing insight into the daily lives, customs and beliefs of the Nagpuri-speaking people.

Santhali Literature

Santhali literature captivates with its simplicity and deep connection to nature, echoing the Santhal community’s reverence for the natural world. From oral ballads to written prose, Santhali literature reflects the spirit of Santhal customs and folklore, imparting timeless wisdom and social learnings through its lyrical narratives.

Oraon Literature

Oraon literature, steeped in the rich cultural background of the Oraon community, resonates with stories of nature, agricultural life and tribal deities. While oral folklore forms the basis of Oraon literature, the advent of written Kurukh scripts has ushered in a new era of literary expression, preserving the community’s heritage for future generations.

Kharia Literature: Echoes of Tribal Traditions

Kharia literature, rooted in the tribe’s deep bond with nature, resonates with stories of tradition, rituals and everyday life. From folk songs celebrating agricultural cycles to proverbs embodying social norms, Kharia literature offers glimpses into the tribe’s rich cultural heritage and moral values.

Ho Literature

Ho literature, steeped in tribal reverence for nature, unfolds as a symphony of folk songs, myths and legends. Celebrating cosmic elements and mystical entities, Ho literature reflects the tribe’s deep connection with the natural world, preserving age-old traditions and cultural practices.

Munda Literature

Munda literature, woven from the threads of oral epics and folk songs, bears testimony to the tribe’s cultural richness and spiritual worldview. Led by scholars like Dr. Ram Dayal Munda, Munda literature transcends oral tradition to offer profound insights into the tribe’s identity, values ​​and social fabric.

In conclusion, tribal literature in Jharkhand emerges as a vibrant mosaic of cultural expression and heritage. As these communities embrace modernity while safeguarding their traditional knowledge, their literary legacy is flourishing, enriching the region’s cultural heritage for generations to come.

Famous Writers of Jharkhand & Their Works

Jharkhand, known for its rich tribal culture and literary heritage, has given birth to numerous esteemed writers who have significantly contributed to Indian literature. These authors, with their distinct narrative styles and themes, have mirrored the socio-cultural landscape of Jharkhand in their writings. Ranging from tribal folklore and social realities to identity and nature, their works offer a comprehensive insight into the region’s ethos. Let us delve into the lives and contributions of these famous writers of Jharkhand, exploring their acclaimed works that have left an indelible mark on Jharkhand’s literary canvas below – 

Writer	Notable Works	Brief Description
Dr. Haldhar Nag	“Lokgeet”	A renowned poet in the Koshali language, Dr. Nag is often referred to as the ‘People’s Poet.’ He received the Padma Shri in 2016 for his contributions to literature.
Mukund Ram	“Mala Munda Kana Kutura”	A prominent Santhali writer, he is known for his novel “Mala Munda Kana Kutura,” the first novel in the Santhali language.
Nirmala Putul	Various Hindi and Santhali Poems	A contemporary tribal poetess known for her impactful narratives in Hindi and Santhali. Her poetry often deals with themes of tribal identity, culture, and socio-political issues.
Jaipal Singh Munda	Various Essays	He was a tribal leader and writer who actively wrote on Adivasi rights and issues. He was instrumental in the formation of the state of Jharkhand.
Lal Ranvijay Nath Shahdeo	“Chotanagpur ki Kahani”	An eminent Hindi writer from Jharkhand, he is known for his novel “Chotanagpur ki Kahani” which presents a vivid picture of the tribal life of Chotanagpur.
Shiv Khera	“You Can Win”	A motivational author, trainer, and public speaker of international fame, Shiv Khera was born in Dhanbad, Jharkhand. His book “You Can Win” is a best-seller.
Ram Dayal Munda	Various Essays on Tribal Issues	An Indian scholar and regional music exponent, he was awarded the Padma Shri for his contributions in the field of art in 2010.
Dr. Mahua Maji	“Dharti Aaba”	An esteemed writer and activist, Dr. Maji has contributed to the literature of Jharkhand through her works focusing on regional issues, particularly those of the tribal communities.
Raghunath Murmu	“Adi Dharam”	He was a Santali writer who invented the Ol Chiki script for the Santali language. His work “Adi Dharam” is a significant contribution to Santali literature.
Sukhram Oraon	Various Oraon Folktales	A noted Oraon writer, Sukhram Oraon has contributed significantly to the preservation and propagation of Oraon folklore through his works.