Tradition and Transition: Exploring Changing Tribal Lives in Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar’s Narratives

Abstract

Indian tribal literature has increasingly gained scholarly attention for its powerful representation of socially excluded and their socio-cultural realities. Among contemporary tribal writers, Hansda Sowvendra Shekhar stands out for his vivid depiction of the Santhal community and their experiences of dislocation, exploitation, and cultural transformation. His literary works provide perspective of insiders on tribal life, reflecting both the continuity of traditional values and the profound impact of development and modernization. This research paper examines the dynamic relationship between tradition and transition in Shekhar’s narratives, focusing particularly on works such as The Adivasi Will Not Dance: Stories and The Mysterious Ailment of Rupi Baskey. The paper focuses how Shekhar portrays the transformation of tribal society under the pressures of industrialization, migration, and socio-political marginalization. It also explores the themes of identity, gender dynamics, cultural memory, ecological consciousness, and resistance embedded within his narratives. Through qualitative textual analysis and a sociocultural framework, the paper analyses how tribal traditions—such as communal living, oral storytelling, and close relationships with nature are challenged by external forces such as capitalism, urbanization, and state-driven development. The research further highlights how Shekhar’s works contribute to the broader discourse of native literature by reclaiming tribal voices and challenging stereotypes about Adivasi communities. Ultimately, the paper concludes that Shekhar’s narratives function as both literary expression and socio-political commentary, illuminating the evolving identity of tribal communities in contemporary India. His works bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, offering valuable insights into the on-going transformation of indigenous lives.