In The Shadow of the Devi Kumaon: Of a Land, a People, a Craft

Book Details

• Author: Manju Kak

• Publisher: Niyogi Books

• Language: English

• Edition: First Edition

• ISBN: 9789385285677

• Pages: 256

• Cover: Hardcover

About the Book

In the Shadow of the Devi Kumaon: Of a Land, a People, a Craft by Manju Kak is a deeply evocative and beautifully written exploration of Kumaon, a region in the Indian Himalayas. Through this work, Kak intricately weaves together the essence of Kumaon’s land, its people, and the artistic heritage that defines it. The book paints a vivid picture of the region’s spiritual, cultural, and geographical landscape, offering readers a rich understanding of the traditions, crafts, and stories that have flourished in this ancient land.

Manju Kak’s narrative is steeped in a sense of reverence for the land of Kumaon, where nature and spirituality are intertwined. The author provides a detailed account of the Devi, a deity revered in the region, whose influence transcends both time and space. The craft traditions, passed down through generations, are explored with meticulous attention, revealing the intimate connection between the people of Kumaon and their artisanal heritage. This book takes readers on a journey that blends history, culture, and art, while also delving into the socio-cultural transformations the region has experienced.

A compelling blend of storytelling and cultural commentary, In the Shadow of the Devi Kumaon highlights the importance of preserving these traditions amidst the pressures of modernization. Through Kak’s narrative, the book offers an intimate portrait of a place where time seems to stand still, yet is inextricably linked to the rapidly changing world.