আধনক যগৰ বড কবত পৰকত আৰ পটভম
Modern Bodo poetry represents a significant evolution in the literary tradition of the Bodo community, one of Northeast India's indigenous groups. Rooted in rich oral traditions of folk songs, ritual chants, and nature-centric verses, contemporary Bodo poetry has transitioned into a dynamic medium of cultural expression and socio-political commentary. This paper examines the historical trajectory and defining characteristics of modern Bodo poetry, analyzing how it negotiates between tradition and modernity. Historically, Bodo poetry was deeply connected to agrarian life, animistic beliefs, and community rituals. The colonial encounter and subsequent Christian missionary activities in the 19th century introduced written forms of the Bodo language, laying the foundation for literary development. The 20th century witnessed a renaissance with the establishment of the Bodo Sahitya Sabha (1952), which standardized the language and promoted literary production. The late 20th century saw poetry become intertwined with the Bodo identity movement, as poets articulated demands for autonomy and linguistic recognition. Thematically, modern Bodo poetry reflects a shift from folklore to contemporary concerns, including ethnic identity, ecological degradation, urbanization, and gender dynamics. Stylistically, it has moved beyond traditional metrics to embrace free verse, experimental forms, and multilingual influences, incorporating Assamese, Hindi, and English elements. Feminist voices have also emerged, challenging patriarchal norms and exploring women's agency. Despite its vibrancy, modern Bodo poetry faces challenges, including limited institutional support and a lack of translations. However, its adaptability ensures its continued relevance, offering a unique lens into the Bodo community's cultural resilience and evolving identity. This study highlights the need for greater academic engagement with Bodo literature to amplify its presence in India's multilingual literary landscape.
Publication Details
- Journal
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Published
- 2025-04-28
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15298720
- Primary Topic
- South Asian Studies and Conflicts
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00