Indian Fairy Tales

A lively anthology of Indian folk narratives, this collection brings together twenty‑five tales whispered in the homes of Calcutta and Simla by two ayahs and a loyal servant, alongside five stories from an elderly storyteller in Patna. The narrators—Dunkní, Múniyá, and Karím—share the wonder of their native Hindústání tongue, revealing the everyday magic and moral lessons that have long entertained families across the subcontinent. Their voices, captured by a curious child who first heard them in childhood, preserve the humor, humility, and occasional mystery that define oral storytelling in that world.

Accompanying notes and an introductory essay place the stories in their cultural context, explaining unfamiliar names and customs while highlighting the blend of Hindu and Muslim traditions that color the tales. Listeners will encounter clever animals, enchanted objects, and brave protagonists whose cleverness and kindness guide them through challenges. The result is a charming glimpse into a rich oral heritage, perfect for anyone eager to explore the timeless imagination of India’s folk imagination.