Transitions and Transformation in South Asian Folklore: Problems, Perspectives, and Prospects

Folklore and traditions constitute an intrinsic facet of our cultural heritage, encompassing a rich tapestry of expressions such as folk songs, dances, tales, proverbs, rituals, and customs. While traditionally associated with the past and rural communities, these traditions are dynamic and responsive to regional, cultural, and global shifts. The impact of migration, globalisation, and evolving technologies, especially the internet and social media, has ushered in new dimensions to the practice and preservation of folklore. Alan Dundes’ seminal concept, “Who are the Folk?” challenges conventional perceptions by asserting that shared experiences define folk groups, thereby reshaping our understanding of folk traditions and their practitioners (Dundes, 1965: 2). In the contemporary digital era, social media platforms have become conduits for the dissemination and preservation of folk practices, enabling communities to showcase their cultural heritage to global audiences. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, innovative adaptations of folklore have emerged, incorporating references to current events while promoting public health awareness.

Folklore studies stand at a critical juncture, marked by transition and transformation. The emergence of post-folklore marks a noteworthy phenomenon within the broader context of South Asian folklore. Conversely, the preservation and promotion of folk heritage confront pressing challenges amidst shifting societal landscapes. The interdisciplinary nature of folklore research opens avenues for exploring emergent themes such as digital ethnography, heritage management, and the evolving role of social media. This conference invites scholars to explore the multifaceted dimensions of South Asian folklore, examining its evolution amidst contemporary realities and addressing critical inquiries such as: How have folk traditions evolved in response to environmental, migratory, and societal shifts? What are the ways in which we reimagine folktales and reinterpret folk practices in contemporary contexts? To what extent do globalisation and commercial pressures impact the integrity of folklore? How does social media influence the transmission and interpretation of folklore? What implications do these transformations hold for folklore research and methodologies, and what strategies are needed to ensure the preservation and revitalisation of folk forms, fostering adaptation and resilience in the face of change?

This Young Folklorist Conference invites early-career researchers (PhD and Postdoctoral candidates), postgraduate and undergraduate students, young practitioners, and enthusiasts to critically examine the dynamics of South Asian folklore within contemporary frameworks. Submissions are encouraged to explore themes including, but not limited to:

• Folklore in South Asia

• Ritual and Performance

• Living Traditions and Transformation

• Transition of Folklore in South Asia

• Liminality

• Folklore and Social Media

• Crises and Folklore

• Post folklore in South Asia

• Digital Ethnography and Folklore

• Methodologies in Folklore Studies

• Reflections from the Field

• Material Culture and Aesthetics

• Spirituality in Folk Tradition

• Knowledge System and Narratives

• Indigeneity: Rights and Resistance

• Eco-Consciousness in Tradition

• Heritage Conservation

• Documentation and Archiving

• Applied Folklore

• Folklore and Translation

We invite submissions of original research, theoretical inquiries, case studies, and interdisciplinary perspectives that enrich the discussion on South Asian folklore. Authors are encouraged to submit abstracts by February 29th through the following link: https://forms.gle/AGPz6mYc9nBo8A7q9

Important dates:

Conference Dates: 29th-30th-31st March 2024

Last date for Submission of Abstracts: 5th March 2024

Intimation of Selected Abstracts: 9th March 2024

Submission of Full-Length Papers: 24th March 2024

Last date for Registration: 24th March 2024

Submission Guidelines:

Abstracts of proposed papers must adhere to the following guidelines:

Abstract Length: [250-300 words] with 5 keywords.

Formatting: Times New Roman, 12-point font, single-spaced, 1-inch margin on all sides, MS Word docs.

Include Title, Author(s) Name(s), Affiliation(s), and Contact Information

Submit abstracts in Word formats via Google Form only

Please follow MLA 9th Edition Guidelines and the above formatting style for completed papers. Submissions should be free of plagiarism and copyright claims. 

[Selected papers will be published as conference proceedings in book format with an ISBN, offering a platform for scholarly dissemination and dialogue within the field of folklore studies. Kindly note that the selection of the abstract does not guarantee publication. The papers will have to undergo double-blind peer review processes.]

[Paper presenters will be awarded eCertificate for their participation. Attendees are eligible to receive an eCertificate by registering for the event, actively participating in most sessions, and engaging actively throughout the conference at no cost.]