In Bon Bibi’s Forest
by Sandhya Rao and illustrated by Proiti Roy
“In Bon Bibi’s Forest” by Sandhya Rao and illustrated by Proiti Roy. Published by Tulika as part of their “Our Myths” series. This series showcases timeless stories which have been passed orally across generations. These myths may have changed over time but are still popular.
The idyllic villages of Sunderbans were terrorised by a monster called Dokkhin Rai. He had wild eyes, sharp teeth, striped skin and pointed nails. Yes, Dokkhin Rai was a fearsome Royal Bengal Tiger! He ruled the hundreds of islands scattered across the mangroves. The inhabitants of villages in these islands did not linger to laugh or talk whenever they went out. This was not just due to the fear of the tide that swelled the waters making it dangerous for their boats but more so because of Dokkhin Rai.
A young boy called Dukhe called out Bon Bibi to help him when Dokkhin Rai was about to devour him. Bon Bibi was believed to be the protector of forests. Who is this Bon Bibi? Does she come to Dukhe’s aid? Can she protect Dukhe from Dokkhin Rai’s clutches? Will Dokkhin Rai listen to her? Why does Dokkhin Rai terrorise the people of Sunderbans? Read this tale shrouded in mystery.
The age old topic of animal and human harmony is touched upon beautifully. The illustrations by Proiti Roy are top notch as usual. They bring the region, and of course Dokkhin Rai, to life. The book is apt for children above 6.
The book led me and my seven year old to a discussion on conservation of forests and the Sunderbans region. We browsed the internet for more information on this myth and found that there is a temple dedicated to Dokkhin Rai known as the Dakshin Rai temple somewhere near the Dhapdhapi station on the Sealdah South Lines. Now this place is on our wish list if we travel to Bengal someday. Everyone who enters the forests of Sunderbans prays to this deity for protection before going irrespective of their caste or religion.
Where to buy from?
The publishers Tulika books here.
An independent indie bookstore, Funky Rainbow, from where I buy a lot of my books from.
