‘Fireside Tales’ Preserves Arunachal’s Storytelling Heritage

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ITANAGAR, Sept 4:

Fireside Tales, a collection of stories authored by Tawang Superintendent of Police (SP) Tasi Darang, is drawing attention for its effort to preserve local stories, cultural memories and the traditional practice of storytelling for younger generations.

The book was released on August 25 by Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo at the SP Residence in Tawang. The release was attended by Zilla Parishad Chairperson Leki Gombu, Kyidphel ZPM Tenzin Monpa, Jang ADC Hakraso Kri, Tawang ADC Rinchin Leta, Assistant Commissioners Tenzin Jambey and Thutan Wangchu, DVO Dr Avang Tamin and other officials and guests.

The book draws inspiration from an earlier tradition when families would gather around fireplaces, with elders narrating stories, sharing experiences and passing knowledge and wisdom to younger members of the family.

Darang said these memories of fireside storytelling and the cultural values associated with them inspired him to bring such stories into written form. The book has been illustrated by Mich Tarung and carries a foreword by Chief Minister Pema Khandu. 

Beyond entertainment, Fireside Tales aims to connect young readers with the traditions, experiences and wisdom of earlier generations. It is also an attempt to ensure that stories traditionally passed down orally are preserved and remain accessible to future generations.

The author has proposed further editions of the book and invited members of the public to contribute stories rooted in local culture and traditions. Selected contributions, he said, would be published with due acknowledgement to the respective contributors. 

Darang also raised concern over the declining habit of reading, particularly among children and young people, and stressed the need to encourage them to return to books and storytelling.

Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo described the initiative as an inspiring example of how officers can pursue literary and creative interests alongside their official responsibilities. She said publications such as Fireside Tales could help preserve memories and connect young readers with the lives, traditions and experiences of earlier generations.

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has congratulated Tasi Darang on the publication, describing Fireside Tales as a thoughtful literary endeavour focused on nurturing young minds.

Khandu said it was particularly encouraging to see a police officer take the initiative to write for children, using stories to entertain, inspire and impart valuable life lessons beyond his professional responsibilities.

He highlighted the book’s focus on values including honesty, humility, patience, justice and harmony. Khandu also noted that the stories offer children a glimpse into Arunachal Pradesh’s traditional wisdom and indigenous institutions, including the Kebang, while keeping the warmth of the state’s storytelling traditions alive.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that Darang’s effort would inspire more such initiatives and help bring the joy of reading and storytelling to children

Location: Itanagar 791111

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