Paper Title
REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN MAO FOLK-TALES: A GENDER PERSPECTIVEAbstract
This paper explores the portrayal and influence of women in Indian folklore, specifically within the Mao society. It delves into myths and folktales, highlighting the significant roles women play in creation narratives and familial dynamics. Through examples like the legend of Dzϋlimosϋro, the text illustrates the intertwining of the spiritual realm, the natural world, and mankind, emphasizing women\'s central position. It also examines how cultural values are conveyed through tales, such as endurance, forgiveness, and the importance of familial promises. The discussion extends to specific stories like \"Bunio and Koshuni\" and \"Asha,\" analyzing their moral dimension and societal reflections. Themes of sincerity, betrayal, and the struggle for recognition permeate these narratives, shedding light on the multifaceted roles of women within Mao society. The paper also highlights the importance of oral traditions in preserving cultural heritage, focusing on the Mao village of Makhel as a cultural hub. Furthermore, it addresses the under-researched topic of women\'s influence in folklore, emphasizing the need for further exploration and analysis. Ultimately, this study aims to shed light on the nuanced representations of women in Mao folklore and their enduring impact on societal values and norms. The abstract concludes with a call for further research into the representation of women in folklore, aiming to uncover latent causes of injustice and misrepresentation in their lives.
KEYWORDS : Indian folklore, Mao society, Women\'s roles, Cultural values, Folktales, Gender stereotypes.
