Tales of the Sun or Folklore of Southern India   By: Mrs. Howard Kingscote

Tales of the Sun, also known as Folklore of Southern India, is a captivating anthology of traditional stories and legends gathered by Mrs. Howard Kingscote. Spanning across the rich cultural tapestry of Southern India, these tales offer readers a delightful glimpse into the region's mythology, folklore, and history.

What makes this book truly remarkable is Mrs. Kingscote's meticulous research and dedication to preserving these narratives. As an author who spent years travelling through various towns and villages in Southern India, she effortlessly immerses readers in the essence of these ancient tales. Her narrative style is engaging and her prose flows seamlessly, making it a smooth reading experience.

The tales themselves cover a wide range of themes, including love, bravery, revenge, and morality. Each story is vividly described, with colorful characters, magical creatures, and supernatural events at its core. Moreover, for readers unfamiliar with Indian mythology, the author provides insightful explanations and background information to enhance understanding and appreciation.

One of the standout features of this anthology is the diverse representation of voices. Mrs. Kingscote doesn't limit the stories to just one community or group but also includes narratives from different castes and regions, providing a holistic view of Southern India's rich folklore.

Another admirable aspect of this book is its educational value. Beyond being entertaining tales, these stories also offer readers an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage and traditions of Southern India. Each narrative is a window into the minds and beliefs of the people, shining a light on their values and customs.

In terms of drawbacks, the only minor criticism would be that some tales can feel repetitive in structure or motifs. However, considering the vastness of the folklore Mrs. Kingscote has collected, it's understandable that there might be some thematic overlap. Additionally, readers who prefer fast-paced, action-packed narratives might find a few stories to be slower in pace.

Overall, Tales of the Sun, or Folklore of Southern India, is an enriching journey through the captivating tales of this vibrant region. Mrs. Howard Kingscote's dedication to preserving these stories is evident in her meticulous research and engaging storytelling. Whether you are a folklore enthusiast, mythology lover, or simply interested in exploring a different cultural landscape, this anthology is a delightful and informative read.

First Page:

In offering these few Indian tales to the public, I cannot refrain from adding a few words at the beginning to express to Pandit Natêsa Sástrî my gratitude for the great assistance he has given me in collecting them, assistance without which they would never have seen the light in the shape of a complete volume. When I began writing down these tales, my only means of collecting them was through my native servants, who used to get them from the old women in the bazaars; but the fables they brought me were as full of corruptions and foreign adaptions as the miscellaneous ingredients that find their way into a dish of their own curry and rice, and had it not been for Mr. Sástrî's timely aid, my small work would have gone forth to the world laden with inaccuracies... Continue reading book >>