A Comparative Study of Indian and Dutch Folktales

Abstract

Edited by Dr. Ritu Sharma Nanand Pandey, Netherlands’ Famous Stories (2025, Isect Publications, Bhopal) is a collection of 13 Dutch folktales. The anthology is not merely a translation but also serves as a cultural bridge between India and the Netherlands. Through these stories, one finds glimpses of the social, economic, political, and religious life of the Netherlands, while also opening possibilities for comparative study with Indian folktales. Earlier, Dr. Sharma translated Sartre’s existentialist play No Exit (Band Raston ke Beech) and the Dutch children’s novel Dieren Beul (Janwaron ka Jani Dushman). In the context of this work, references to Indian folklorists such as Prof. Prabha Pant, A. K. Ramanujan, and writer Vijaydan Detha place the discussion within the broader framework of folklore studies. The tales in the collection establish parallels with Indian narratives. Stories like Samajhdar Anatun, Chuhiya ki Shadi (The Mouse’s Wedding), and Jadui Patthar (The Magical Stone) resonate with the Panchatantra and the folktales of Kumaon. These narratives feature timeless elements such as magical objects, transformations, cleverness, and moral dilemmas.  This anthology enriches Hindi literature while introducing readers to Dutch folklore and embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world as one family.