Cultural Narratives for a Greener Tomorrow: Barindra’s Folk Literature and Environmental Sustainability Practices

Cultural Narratives for a Greener Tomorrow: Barindra’s Folk Literature and Environmental Sustainability Practices

Md Habibur Rahman*¹, Md. Mobashir Rahman²

¹Associate Professor, Department of Folklore and Social Development Studies, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi – 6205, Bangladesh  

² Graduate Researcher, Department of Folklore and Social Development Studies, University of Rajshahi, Faculty of Social Sciences, Rajshahi – 6205, Bangladesh

*Corresponding Author

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.909000787

Received: 26 September 2025; Accepted: 03 October 2025; Published: 30 October 2025

ABSTRACT

Environmental sustainability has emerged as a pressing global concern, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate change and ecological degradation, such as the Barind Tract of Bangladesh. While contemporary strategies often emphasize technological solutions, the integration of traditional environmental knowledge remains underexplored. This study addresses the gaps by investigating the role of folk literature—including proverbs, folktales, songs, and rituals—in shaping environmental awareness and sustainable practices. Employing an ethnographic methodology, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with local elders, focus group discussions, participant observations, and document analysis of folk narratives. The findings reveal that Barind’s oral traditions embed vital ecological knowledge related to water conservation, biodiversity protection, soil management, sustainable farming, and communal governance. Proverbs such as “Jal nai, dhoroni nai, bhuture dhora jabe na” (Without water, there is no agriculture, and without agriculture, there is no future) illustrate the deep connection between cultural values and ecological practices. Folktales of Banbibi and village councils emphasize the importance of respect for biodiversity and community-led resource management, while songs and agricultural rituals reinforce ecological responsibility. By bridging indigenous knowledge with contemporary environmental challenges, this research demonstrates the potential of folk literature to inform sustainable development policies and cultivate environmental stewardship. The study emphasizes the significance of revitalizing cultural narratives as a means to achieve ecological sustainability, offering both theoretical insights and practical implications for integrating traditional wisdom into contemporary frameworks.

Keywords: Folk literature, Indigenous knowledge, Environmental sustainability, Barind Tract, Ecological stewardship

INTRODUCTION

Sustainability and sustainable development have become central themes across economic, environmental, social, and educational discourses worldwide (Tasnim et al., 2022; Sulphey et al., 2023). The accelerating pace of climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion has made environmental sustainability one of the most pressing global concerns of the 21st century (United Nations, 2020; IPCC, 2021). These challenges require not only technological innovations but also cultural and behavioral transformations rooted in community knowledge and practices (Itkonen, 2022).

Bangladesh, one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of environmental degradation, exemplifies the urgency of integrating diverse approaches to sustainability. Rising temperatures, water scarcity, and soil degradation have exacerbated the fragility of agricultural livelihoods, especially in rural areas (Biswas, 2018; Siddique et al., 2022). Scholars increasingly argue that traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) can complement modern environmental management strategies by offering low-cost, community-based, and context-specific practices (Nuri, 2021; Khan, Marinova, & Todorov, 2021).

Folk literature, in particular, serves as a repository of Indigenous ecological knowledge transmitted through oral traditions, including folktales, proverbs, songs, and rituals (Gabriel et al., 2019; Bhattacherjee & Sinha, 2023). These cultural narratives preserve not only aesthetic and moral values but also practical wisdom regarding water management, soil fertility, biodiversity protection, and community cooperation (Kurien, 1998; Pal & Mohamadi, 2010). For instance, proverbs like “Pani rakhe bani, mati rakhe mati” (Water preserves the forest, soil preserves the soil) convey intergenerational ecological ethics. At the same time, legends such as those of Bonbibi highlight the sacred duty of protecting nature (Saria, Hossain, & Marinova, 2022). Yet, despite a growing recognition of the socio-ecological significance of folklore, a notable research gap remains in exploring how Barind’s oral traditions specifically embody sustainability practices and how these can be adapted to contemporary challenges (Parrotta & Chang, 2016; Bocking, 2023).

The Barind Tract, situated in northwestern Bangladesh, is not only a distinct ecological zone but also a cultural landscape where traditional folk practices flourish. As the largest Pleistocene physiographic unit in the Bengal Basin, covering approximately 7,770 square kilometers, the region is marked by unique geological and hydrological features that shape both livelihoods and narratives (Banglapedia, 2021). Barind Bhumi encompasses Rajshahi, Chapainababgonj, Naogaon, Bogra, and parts of Dinajpur and Rangpur districts, where local communities have historically developed adaptive ecological practices embedded within their folklore. However, academic research has seldom examined these traditions as a living source of environmental knowledge for sustainability.

This study, therefore, aims to investigate how folk literature in the Barind Tract contributes to environmental sustainability by preserving and transmitting ecological wisdom. Specifically, it explores the role of proverbs, folktales, songs, and rituals in shaping water conservation, biodiversity protection, agricultural sustainability, and communal resource governance. By bridging Indigenous knowledge with contemporary sustainability discourses, this research seeks to highlight the potential of folk literature as both cultural heritage and an ecological resource for sustainable development in Bangladesh and beyond.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Introduction to Folk Literature and Sustainability

The intersection of folk literature and environmental sustainability has garnered increasing attention in recent years. While previous literature has emphasized the didactic role of proverbs, folktales, and other oral narratives in passing down ecological knowledge (Gabriel et al., 2019; Mutonyi, 2016; Bagchi, 1993), there remains a significant gap in exploring the ecosophy (ecological wisdom) embedded within traditional folk narratives, particularly within the Barind region of Bangladesh. This literature review synthesizes existing research on folk narratives and environmental practices, with a focus on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and its potential to promote sustainable livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable regions such as the Barind.

Folk Literature as a Repository of Traditional Knowledge

Folk literature encompasses a diverse range of forms—tales, songs, ballads, proverbs, riddles, charms, myths, and more—that serve as repositories of traditional knowledge and cultural practices. This literature has long been acknowledged as a source of sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship (Nuri, 2021; Khan et al., 2021). For example, the Khanar Bachan collection of proverbs provides insights into sustainable agricultural practices, such as soil management and pest control, which are essential for maintaining ecological balance (Nuri, 2021). Folk narratives of Barind promote environmental sustainability by imparting traditional agricultural knowledge, fostering self-reliance, and encouraging practices that align with local ecosystems. These practices, often interwoven with cultural values, are passed down through generations and are integral to the community’s identity and resilience.

Environmental Sustainability and Its Theoretical Framework

Environmental sustainability, as a concept, emphasizes the preservation of natural resources for future generations while meeting present needs (Asha, 2023). This involves practices such as water conservation, waste reduction, and the use of renewable resources (Sulphey, 2023). Modern sustainability theories advocate for a balance between economic growth and environmental preservation, emphasizing the importance of respecting nature and adopting responsible resource management (Itkonen, 2022). Traditional ecological knowledge offers valuable insights into these practices, often in ways that modern systems have failed to incorporate. Research indicates that integrating indigenous knowledge systems into contemporary sustainability frameworks can significantly enhance resource management and resilience (Bocking, 2023; Parrotta & Chang, 2016).

The Role of Folk Literature in Environmental Sustainability

Folk literature naturally reflects the environment, often shaped by the temperate climate of regions like Bengal, where the community faces fewer survival challenges. This cultural context fosters an appreciation for nature, encouraging people to celebrate and protect the land, rivers, and seasonal changes (Siddique et al., 2022). Bengal’s rich folk literature, encompassing songs, ballads, tales, and proverbs, offers indigenous wisdom that connects ecological practices with cultural identity. This literary tradition absorbs external influences while maintaining its roots in environmental harmony. The Baul songs, for instance, convey philosophies of simple living and spiritual connection to nature, countering the consumerist pressures that drive ecological degradation (Khan, Marinova, & Todorov, 2021). These songs, along with traditional agricultural songs, reinforce the importance of sustainable farming practices and highlight the cyclical rhythms of nature, promoting ecological responsibility (Saria et al., 2022).

Folk Songs and Music Traditions

Folk music in Bangladesh, often characterized by minimalist instrumental arrangements, is primarily lyric-based and plays a crucial role in environmental education (Bhatta et al., 2019). Notable musical traditions such as Baul, Gombhira, Bhatiali, and Bhawaiya express deep connections with nature. The Baul tradition, in particular, stands out as a distinctive heritage that advocates for spiritual unity with the environment (Rodriguez, 2022). Folk music often employs instruments like the ektara, a one-stringed instrument, to enhance the emotional resonance of environmental themes.

Folk Tales and Environmental Wisdom

Folk tales, passed down orally, feature characters who often depend on fate, divine intervention, and natural forces rather than sheer intellect. These tales, whether myths, adventure stories, or fables, serve to impart ecological wisdom through their narratives. The simplicity or complexity of these tales allows for the transmission of moral lessons about living in harmony with the environment (Brodt, 2001). For example, the Banbibi tales, which tell the story of the goddess who protects the Sundarbans, highlight the importance of preserving natural habitats and respecting biodiversity (Pal & Mohamadi, 2010).

Folk Drama and Community Engagement

Folk drama, which combines dance, song, music, and acting, serves both entertainment and educational purposes. Jatra, a traditional form of folk theater in Bengal, depicts legendary stories of heroism and mythology, including themes of community life and environmental stewardship. These performances engage the community not only through storytelling but also in discussions about ecological sustainability and the importance of protecting the environment (Carreira & Burgeile, 2018).

Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Modern Practices

The research underscores the importance of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) in shaping sustainable practices, particularly in rural communities where these practices are deeply ingrained in daily life. Unlike modern mechanistic approaches to resource extraction, TEK emphasizes methods that are harmonious with the environment, using ecosystem-appropriate technologies that align with natural cycles (Lam, 2014). This study positions folk literature as an essential resource for countering exploitative modern technologies, offering alternative pathways for sustainable resource management (Bocking, 2023).

Challenging Dominant Worldviews

This paper challenges the prevailing anthropocentric worldview that treats nature merely as a resource for human use. By recognizing the inherent value of the natural world, the research advocates for an ecocentric perspective that transcends human-centered development. Traditional proverbs like “Jal rakhe manush, bhumi rakhe bhumi” (Water preserves people, soil preserves soil) underscore the interdependence of humans and the environment, advocating for sustainable practices that ensure the well-being of both (Parrotta & Chang, 2016).

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study employs an ethnographic research design, utilizing qualitative methods to investigate the role of folk literature in promoting environmental awareness and fostering sustainable behaviors within the Barind Tract of Bangladesh. Ethnography is particularly well-suited for this research as it enables an in-depth exploration of local knowledge systems, cultural practices, and the socio-ecological dynamics embedded in folk narratives. The study focuses on understanding how traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) within folk literature can contribute to sustainability efforts and help communities adapt to pressing environmental challenges.

Study Area and Participants

The research was conducted in the Barind Tract, a region in northwestern Bangladesh that is environmentally vulnerable. The area is renowned for its distinctive geological features, which significantly impact agricultural practices and contribute to environmental concerns, including water scarcity, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss. The Barind Tract also maintains a rich oral tradition that is key to preserving local ecological knowledge.

The participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure a diverse representation of individuals with a deep familiarity with local folk literature and its connection to environmental conservation. A total of 30 participants (15 males and 15 females) aged 30 to 75 were included. These individuals were identified as wise elders, storytellers, and community leaders known for their active involvement in traditional agricultural practices and their knowledge of environmental folk narratives.

Data Collection Methods

Semi-Structured Interviews

Purpose: To gather in-depth qualitative insights into participants’ experiences with folk narratives and their perceptions of environmental sustainability.

Process: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with local elders and storytellers. Each interview lasted between 20 and 50 minutes and was guided by open-ended questions. The focus was on understanding how participants interpret and transmit knowledge related to water management, biodiversity conservation, soil fertility, and other sustainable practices embedded in folk tales, proverbs, and songs.

Recording and Transcription: Interviews were audio-recorded with consent and transcribed verbatim for subsequent analysis.

Focus Group Discussions (FGDs)

Purpose: To facilitate group discussions and explore community perspectives on the role of folk literature in environmental conservation.

Process: Three focus group discussions were organized, with seven participants in each group. Each FGD lasted between 1.5 and 2 hours. The discussions were designed to allow participants to share and reflect on the significance of proverbs, folk tales, and songs related to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The groups provided a platform for multiple viewpoints on how folk narratives influence sustainable practices in the community.

Recording and Transcription: The FGDs were audio-recorded, and the transcriptions were subsequently analyzed to extract common themes and key insights.

Participant Observation

Purpose: To observe how folk narratives are enacted in real-life settings and how they inform environmental practices.

Process: The researcher participated in community events, such as agricultural festivals (e.g., Nabanna) and folk performances (e.g., Jatra), where environmental narratives are shared through storytelling and performances. This allowed for a deeper understanding of the cultural context in which these narratives are communicated and how they reinforce ecological responsibility.

Field Notes: Detailed field notes were taken during observations to document how folk stories are performed and the ecological messages conveyed through these public rituals.

Document Analysis

Purpose: To analyze written and oral records of folk narratives, including proverbs, songs, and tales, to identify recurring themes of environmental sustainability.

Process: The researcher examined local collections of folk literature, including transcriptions of oral stories, folk sayings, and traditional songs. These texts were analyzed to identify ecological themes, including water conservation, soil management, biodiversity, and sustainable agricultural practices. The analysis provided additional context to the data collected from interviews, FGDs, and participant observations.

Data Analysis

Data analysis followed a thematic analysis approach, adhering to the guidelines of Braun and Clarke (2006). The analysis process was divided into the following stages:

Familiarization: The researcher began by reviewing all transcriptions (interviews, FGDs) and field notes to become familiar with the data.

Initial Coding: A set of initial codes was generated based on the themes that emerged from the data, such as sustainable farming, water management, community cooperation, and biodiversity preservation.

Theme Development: Codes were grouped into broader themes, reflecting the main patterns in how folk literature transmits ecological knowledge. Themes were continuously refined through constant comparison across the different data sources (interviews, FGDs, document analysis).

Interpretation: The identified themes were interpreted in the context of environmental sustainability and traditional ecological knowledge. Special attention was given to how folk literature encourages pro-environmental behaviors and reflects community values.

Member Checking: To ensure the credibility of the analysis, a selection of participants was invited to review the findings. Their feedback was incorporated to refine the thematic analysis. 

Ethical Considerations

This study adhered to ethical guidelines set forth by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The participants were informed about the study’s objectives and were asked to provide informed consent before participation. To ensure confidentiality, no personal identifiers were included in the transcripts. Participants were also reassured that their involvement was voluntary and that they could withdraw at any time without consequence. Throughout the fieldwork, the researcher maintained cultural sensitivity and respect for local traditions and practices.

Limitations

The primary limitation of this study is its geographic scope—the research focuses exclusively on the Barind Tract and may not be fully generalizable to other regions of Bangladesh or South Asia. Additionally, the self-reported nature of the data may introduce social desirability bias, as participants may have been inclined to emphasize positive aspects of their community’s environmental practices.

The methodology outlined here integrates multiple qualitative methods—semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, and document analysis—to explore how Barind folk literature contributes to environmental sustainability. The thematic analysis approach ensures that the findings are grounded in local knowledge, offering a nuanced understanding of how traditional ecological knowledge can inform modern sustainability efforts.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

The analysis of folk literature in the Barind Tract reveals that proverbs, folk tales, and songs encapsulate Indigenous Knowledge (IK) related to environmental sustainability. These narratives serve as more than just cultural artifacts; they also provide practical guidelines for sustainable living, illustrating the community’s deep-rooted connection to the environment. This section discusses key themes that emerged from the interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), participant observations, and document analysis.

Proverbs and Their Significance

Several proverbs that emerged from the study serve as critical expressions of environmental wisdom. For example, the proverb “Jal rakhe manush, bhumi rakhe bhumi” (Water preserves people, soil preserves soil) reflects the community’s deep understanding of the interdependence between water resources and human well-being. This proverb highlights the essential role of water in sustaining both agriculture and life in the Barind region. Water is seen as vital not only for farming but also for community survival (Siddique et al., 2022).

Another significant proverb, “Mati joto sobur, fole toto boro” (The more patience you have with soil, the greater the yield), underscores the value of soil conservation and the long-term benefits of sustainable agricultural practices. This reflects the community’s emphasis on careful soil management as a means of ensuring future food security (Pal & Mohamadi, 2010). These proverbs foster a cultural ethos that prioritizes environmental stewardship and reinforces the value of patience and sustainable use of natural resources.

Other proverbs, such as “Khudro ja dakhtey hoy, shorir bhora hoy” (If you care for the small things, the body stays healthy) and “Jol nai, dhoroni nai, bhuture dhora jabe na” (Without water, there is no agriculture, and without agriculture, there is no future), further emphasize the interconnection between environmental well-being and community health. These proverbs were frequently cited by participants in the FGDs as foundational teachings for ecological responsibility, particularly in the context of water management and agriculture (Asha, 2023).

Folktales and Ecological Values

Folktales play a central role in transmitting ecological values and ethical principles. Stories of Banbibi, the goddess of the Sundarbans, protector of the forest and wildlife, reflect a deep reverence for nature and the urgent need to preserve natural habitats. According to participants, these tales emphasize the sacredness of specific ecosystems and instill a sense of ecological responsibility (Saria et al., 2022). The tales not only serve to protect biodiversity but also encourage conservation practices through the power of storytelling.

The narratives of village councils (Panchayats) resolving conflicts over land and water use through consensus-building are also significant. These tales reinforce the importance of cooperation and communal responsibility, essential values for maintaining ecological balance. Participants indicated that such folk narratives also illustrate traditional governance systems, which provide valuable lessons in resource management and community-led decision-making (Khan et al., 2021). Furthermore, myths and legends surrounding sacred groves, where tree cutting and hunting are prohibited, contribute directly to biodiversity conservation by fostering cultural respect for specific ecosystems and reinforcing the importance of protecting rare species (Brodt, 2001).

Songs, Rituals, and Agricultural Practices

Folk songs and agricultural rituals are powerful vehicles for transmitting knowledge about sustainable farming practices. In particular, songs that emphasize crop rotation, organic farming, and soil fertility reflect the community’s adaptive strategies for ensuring agricultural productivity. For instance, during the Nabanna festival, which celebrates the new harvest, the community participates in rituals that thank the Earth, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable agriculture (Bhattacherjee & Sinha, 2023). These practices encourage a cyclical relationship with the land, ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability.

Moreover, narratives about the interdependence of species, such as the harmony between birds, insects, and plants, underscore the intricate connections within ecosystems. These tales teach that every species plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem, fostering mutual respect between community members and the natural world (Siddique et al., 2022).

Cultural Expressions and Traditional Ecological Knowledge

Folk literature, particularly in forms like sari gan (a traditional genre of song), is deeply intertwined with the environment, reflecting the daily lives and emotional experiences of the communities, particularly those near the Padma rivers. Themes of boatmen, rivers, wind, and rain dominate these songs, illustrating how nature influences human activities and emotions. For example, the sari gan lyrics often use nature as a metaphor for life’s challenges, reinforcing the spiritual and emotional connection between the people and their environment (Gabriel et al., 2019).

These cultural expressions also reflect the resilience and adaptation of local communities, reinforcing the idea that traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is not static but dynamic, evolving in response to environmental changes and social needs (Itkonen, 2022).

Application of Indigenous Knowledge to Contemporary Environmental Issues

Indigenous knowledge (IK) is increasingly recognized for its value in addressing contemporary environmental challenges. The integration of traditional ecological knowledge with modern sustainability practices can enhance biodiversity conservation and offer alternatives to mechanistic, exploitative environmental practices (Bocking, 2023). For example, proverbs and folktales that emphasize water conservation can directly inform modern water management strategies, especially in the face of rising water scarcity. Participants in the FGDs frequently referenced the proverb “Jal nai, dhoroni nai, bhuture dhora jabe na”, emphasizing that sustainable water usage is critical for agricultural productivity and overall community well-being. Similarly, the preservation of biodiversity through sacred groves and folk narratives about the Banbibi legend suggests ways that local governance and community-led conservation practices can address issues such as habitat destruction and species extinction (Stephen & Bocking, 2023). These narratives highlight the value of community-driven efforts in conservation, providing a model for integrating IK into national and global environmental policies.

The study also reveals that folk literature’s emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices, such as organic farming and soil management, can inform modern farming systems that promote food security while minimizing environmental impact. For example, the proverb “Mati joto sobur, fole toto boro” emphasizes the importance of soil management, a crucial aspect of sustainable farming that can be integrated into contemporary agricultural practices to ensure both productivity and environmental health.

Finally, the role of cultural identity in environmental stewardship cannot be overlooked. Participants expressed that a strong sense of cultural pride—rooted in folk narratives—motivates them to protect local ecosystems. Understanding the connection between their cultural heritage and natural surroundings fosters a deep commitment to environmental protection and sustainability (Pal & Mohamadi, 2010). The findings from this study underscore the importance of folk literature as a repository of environmental wisdom and its potential role in promoting sustainability. Through proverbs, folktales, songs, and rituals, Barind communities transmit traditional ecological knowledge that not only preserves cultural heritage but also offers practical insights into water conservation, biodiversity protection, sustainable farming, and community governance. By integrating Indigenous Knowledge (IK) with modern environmental practices, this research demonstrates how folk narratives can foster ecological stewardship, ensuring a sustainable future for both the environment and community well-being.

Implementations

The findings from this study have several practical implications for environmental sustainability and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) into modern practices. These implications can be applied across various sectors, from community-level resource management to policy development. Key implementations include:

Integrating Folk Narratives into Environmental Education

The study’s findings suggest that folk literature, including proverbs, songs, and folktales, plays a crucial role in shaping environmental awareness within local communities. These narratives can be integrated into formal education systems, especially in rural areas, to enhance ecological literacy. Incorporating these traditional stories into school curricula, workshops, and community-based training programs can help preserve local knowledge while promoting sustainable practices among younger generations.

Community-Based Resource Management

Folk narratives emphasizing cooperation and communal responsibility (e.g., tales of village councils or sacred groves) can be used to strengthen community-based natural resource management. By integrating traditional governance structures with modern environmental management practices, communities can create more effective and contextually relevant solutions to issues such as water management, soil conservation, and biodiversity preservation. These approaches can foster collaborative efforts to address local environmental challenges.

Policy Development and Advocacy

The study highlights the potential for folk knowledge to inform national and local environmental policies. Governments and environmental organizations can draw on traditional ecological practices documented in folk literature to craft inclusive, culturally sensitive policies that resonate with local communities. For instance, sacred groves or water conservation practices, as described in folklore, could serve as models for biodiversity conservation initiatives or sustainable water usage policies. This approach aligns local knowledge with global sustainability goals, ensuring that policy frameworks are both practical and culturally appropriate.

Reviving and Promoting Cultural Heritage

By documenting and promoting folk literature through digital platforms, community festivals, and educational programs, these cultural treasures can be preserved for future generations to enjoy. Moreover, integrating folk stories into ecotourism and heritage conservation programs can offer a sustainable avenue for economic development while preserving cultural identity. This can empower local communities to take an active role in cultural conservation while benefiting from the monetary value of their heritage.

Supporting Sustainable Agricultural Practices

Folk songs and proverbs related to soil management, crop rotation, and organic farming offer valuable insights into sustainable agriculture. Modern farmers can benefit from revitalizing traditional agricultural practices embedded in folk narratives to improve soil fertility and crop resilience. Agrarian extension programs could incorporate these conventional practices, encouraging holistic farming systems that support both food security and environmental health.

Enhancing Local Environmental Stewardship

By fostering a deeper connection between cultural identity and environmental stewardship, communities can take more ownership of sustainable practices. Folk literature that emphasizes respect for nature, such as tales about the Banbibi goddess and sacred sites, can inspire individuals and community leaders to become environmental advocates. The promotion of eco-conscious cultural values can help communities mobilize for environmental action, ensuring long-term ecological sustainability. The integration of folk literature into environmental practices presents a pathway to sustainable development that combines traditional knowledge with modern approaches. By focusing on education, community involvement, policy integration, and economic development, these implementations can ensure that conventional ecological knowledge remains a vital resource for global sustainability efforts.

Scope for Future Research

This study highlights the role of folk literature in promoting environmental sustainability in the Barind Tract. However, several directions for future research remain:

Comparative Studies: Research comparing folk literature and sustainability practices across different regions of Bangladesh or South Asia could offer insights into region-specific ecological wisdom.

Integration with Environmental Education: Exploring the integration of folk narratives in modern education could enhance ecological literacy among younger generations, especially in formal curricula and community programs.

Longitudinal Impact: Long-term studies tracking the effects of folk narratives on sustainability practices could reveal their lasting influence on resource management and community resilience.

Digital Platforms: Investigating the role of digital media in preserving and sharing folk literature can help revive traditional knowledge and spread environmental advocacy globally.

Policy Integration: Future research could assess how Indigenous knowledge is integrated into national environmental policies, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities for policy inclusion.

Gender Dynamics: Examining gender roles in the interpretation and application of folk knowledge could offer a deeper understanding of how community structures influence sustainability.

Interdisciplinary Approaches: Combining anthropology, sociology, and environmental science can provide a more holistic perspective on the role of folk literature in addressing modern environmental challenges.

These avenues will further illuminate the potential of folk literature in advancing sustainable futures.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that folk literature in the Barind Tract—comprising proverbs, folktales, and songs—is an invaluable repository of indigenous knowledge (IK) that addresses contemporary environmental challenges. By emphasizing critical aspects of water conservation, biodiversity preservation, sustainable agriculture, community governance, and cultural identity, these narratives not only promote environmental stewardship but also foster a deep connection between communities and their natural environments. The findings from the Focus Group Discussions further highlight how community members actively engage with these stories, using them to inform decisions about resource management and sustainability practices.

As environmental issues continue to escalate, harnessing the wisdom embedded in folk literature offers a pathway to sustainable living that simultaneously respects cultural heritage and maintains ecological balance. By revitalizing and integrating these traditional narratives into contemporary environmental strategies, communities can build more sustainable futures while preserving their unique cultural identities. Folk literature, therefore, transcends storytelling; it provides a framework for understanding the complex relationships between humanity, nature, and sustainability.

Ultimately, this research highlights the crucial importance of acknowledging and valuing indigenous knowledge as a vital component in the global pursuit of environmental sustainability. Through its integration into policy, education, and community practices, folk literature can serve as a transformative tool for sustainable development.

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