Mahabharata: The Tharu Barka Naach, A Rural Folk Art Version told by the Dangaura Tharu people of Jalaura Dang Valley, Nepal

by Kurt W. Meyer, Pamela Deuel (Editor)

For generations the Tharu farmers of the village of Narayanpur, Nepal, have passed down their version of the Mahabharata through song and dance by word of mouth. For the first time, 14 of their songs are translated into English, accompanied by Tharu folk art illustrations, and published in book form. The songs highlight the story of the conflict between the five Pandava brothers and their cousins, the 100 Kauravas.

120 pages, Paperback

First published February 4, 1998

Reviews

[Prashant · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is a great text for preserving the Tharu culture. The way Bhim carries the story might explain the Tharu culture and history in one way.

While reading the third song, I notice that there are numerous inconsistencies in the text. Such as 'Bidur' and 'Vidur'. Sometimes, the authors say that it is Prince Dronacharya looking up to shoot the Rau bird. And in the very next stanza, they say that it is the Prince Daunagir. Is it an error? Feels so.

It is essentially a song. It would be best to see the Dangaura Tharu perform it rather than read it.