Dadi, Dantkatha and the Djinns: Kashmiri Folk Tales That Bring Back Childhood

Dadi, Dantkatha and the Djinns by Avanti Sopory, published by Readomania, is a delightful anthology of folk tales from Kashmir.

This book instantly reminded me of my childhood days, when we would sit around an elderly person, listening with rapt attention to tales, folklores, and stories that carried wisdom within them.

That same charm flows through these pages, which bring together 27 tales of kings, rulers, peasants, families, villagers, talking animals, and even fairies, each with its own morals and lessons to reflect on.

It’s refreshing to see these short, timeless tales being shared, almost like opening a treasure chest of oral storytelling that’s been passed down for generations.

I am amazed at how the author managed to remember or collect all of these stories, preserving them in such a simple yet engaging way. It feels like a bridge between past and present, ensuring that the magic of these narratives is not lost.

This is not just a book, it’s an experience, especially for children. It’s a wonderful way to introduce them to values, culture, imagination, and the beauty of stories from Kashmir.

Read it for your children!

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