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Jungle Nama: A Story of the Sunderban
Jungle Nama is Amitav Ghosh's verse adaptation of an episode from the legend of Bon Bibi, a tale popular in the villages of the Sundarban, which also lies at the heart of the novel The Hungry Tide. It is the story of the avaricious rich merchant Dhona, the poor lad Dukhey, and his mother; it is also the story of Dokkhin Rai, a mighty spirit who appears to humans as a tiger, of Bon Bibi, the benign goddess of the forest, and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli.
The original print version of this legend, dating back to the nineteenth century, is composed in a Bengali verse meter known as dwipodi poyar. Jungle Nama is a free adaptation of the legend, told entirely in a poyar-like meter of twenty-four syllable couplets that replicate the cadence of the original.
The first-ever book in verse by Amitav Ghosh, Jungle Nama evokes the wonder of the Sundarban through its poetry, accompanied by stunning artwork by the renowned artist Salman Toor. This is an illuminated edition of a fabulous folk tale that every book lover will want to possess.
The original print version of this legend, dating back to the nineteenth century, is composed in a Bengali verse meter known as dwipodi poyar. Jungle Nama is a free adaptation of the legend, told entirely in a poyar-like meter of twenty-four syllable couplets that replicate the cadence of the original.
The first-ever book in verse by Amitav Ghosh, Jungle Nama evokes the wonder of the Sundarban through its poetry, accompanied by stunning artwork by the renowned artist Salman Toor. This is an illuminated edition of a fabulous folk tale that every book lover will want to possess.
88 pages, Hardcover
Published February 12, 2021
18 people are currently reading
593 people want to read
About the author
Amitav Ghosh
56 books4,175 followersAmitav Ghosh is an Indian writer. He won the 54th Jnanpith award in 2018, India's highest literary honour. Ghosh's ambitious novels use complex narrative strategies to probe the nature of national and personal identity, particularly of the people of India and South Asia. He has written historical fiction and non-fiction works discussing topics such as colonialism and climate change.
Ghosh studied at The Doon School, Dehradun, and earned a doctorate in social anthropology at the University of Oxford. He worked at the Indian Express newspaper in New Delhi and several academic institutions. His first novel, The Circle of Reason, was published in 1986, which he followed with later fictional works, including The Shadow Lines and The Glass Palace. Between 2004 and 2015, he worked on the Ibis trilogy, which revolves around the build-up and implications of the First Opium War. His non-fiction work includes In an Antique Land (1992) and The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable (2016).
Ghosh holds two Lifetime Achievement awards and four honorary doctorates. In 2007, he was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest honours, by the President of India. In 2010, he was a joint winner, along with Margaret Atwood, of a Dan David prize, and in 2011, he was awarded the Grand Prix of the Blue Metropolis festival in Montreal. He was the first English-language writer to receive the award. In 2019, Foreign Policy magazine named him one of the most important global thinkers of the preceding decade.
Ghosh studied at The Doon School, Dehradun, and earned a doctorate in social anthropology at the University of Oxford. He worked at the Indian Express newspaper in New Delhi and several academic institutions. His first novel, The Circle of Reason, was published in 1986, which he followed with later fictional works, including The Shadow Lines and The Glass Palace. Between 2004 and 2015, he worked on the Ibis trilogy, which revolves around the build-up and implications of the First Opium War. His non-fiction work includes In an Antique Land (1992) and The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable (2016).
Ghosh holds two Lifetime Achievement awards and four honorary doctorates. In 2007, he was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest honours, by the President of India. In 2010, he was a joint winner, along with Margaret Atwood, of a Dan David prize, and in 2011, he was awarded the Grand Prix of the Blue Metropolis festival in Montreal. He was the first English-language writer to receive the award. In 2019, Foreign Policy magazine named him one of the most important global thinkers of the preceding decade.
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February 4, 2022
4.5/5
“Thousands of islands rise from the rivers’ rich silts,
Crowned with forests of mangrove, rising on stilts.
This is the Sundarban, where great rivers give birth;
To a vast jungle that joins Oceans and Earth.”
Jungle Nama by Amitav Ghosh marks the renowned author’s foray into verse. The story of Bon Bibi was featured as an integral part of the narrative in Amitav Ghosh’s novel, The Hungry Tide. The legend of Bon Bibi is an important part of the culture and folklore of the Sundarbans with shrines devoted to the deity found in pockets of the area.
Jungle Nama, is the author’s retelling of an episode from the legend of Bon Bibi, the goddess who protects the forests and all living creatures who seek her aid and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli . Dokkhin Rai is a demon–like creature , who assumes the avatar of a tiger in hunting humans who dare to trespass into his part of the forest. When Dhona, a greedy merchant enters the demon Dokkhin Rai’s territory to collect honey, timber and beeswax without seeking his permission, Dokhin Rai asks for a human sacrifice as penance. Dhona offers the life of the young lad Dukhey to appease the demon. What follows is the story of how Bon Bibi and her brother Shah Jongoli help Dukhey and teach the villains a lesson. While this is basically a story of good vs evil, there is also a deeper message of conservation of the forests and environmental protection.
The original source material , Bon Bibir Johurnama, is written in Bengali meter verse, ‘dwipodi –poyar’. Amitav Ghosh’s English translation is also rendered in poyar- like meter (couplets of twenty- four syllables).This slim volume also features stunning black and white illustrations by Salman Toor which perfectly complement the text. I had heard rave reviews of the audio narration of this book and was happy to pair my reading with the audiobook for an immersive experience. Ali Sethi’s narration is brilliant and the accompanying melodious score is captivating .
Listening to this short yet immensely entertaining audiobook transported me back to my childhood and fond memories of my late father (to whom I credit my love for books and reading) reading folk and fairy tales of Bengal (Thakurmar Jhuli) to me. I remember him voicing the characters and making the stories come alive with his narration – an experience we both enjoyed. If he were alive today, I am sure he would have loved Ali Sethi’s rendering of Amitav Ghosh’s Jungle Nama.
I’ll admit that The Hungry Tide was not my favorite Amitav Ghosh novel. But I loved the backdrop of the Sundarbans and the lore surrounding it. Jungle Nama is a commendable effort in bringing the folklore of the Sundarbans to a wider audience. I only wish it covered the complete tales of Bon Bibi and just not part of the story. This is a wonderful and entertaining read for both children and adults. I'm thrilled to add this to my personal collection.
My Rating for the book: 4/5
My rating for the audio: 5/5
“Thousands of islands rise from the rivers’ rich silts,
Crowned with forests of mangrove, rising on stilts.
This is the Sundarban, where great rivers give birth;
To a vast jungle that joins Oceans and Earth.”
Jungle Nama by Amitav Ghosh marks the renowned author’s foray into verse. The story of Bon Bibi was featured as an integral part of the narrative in Amitav Ghosh’s novel, The Hungry Tide. The legend of Bon Bibi is an important part of the culture and folklore of the Sundarbans with shrines devoted to the deity found in pockets of the area.
Jungle Nama, is the author’s retelling of an episode from the legend of Bon Bibi, the goddess who protects the forests and all living creatures who seek her aid and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli . Dokkhin Rai is a demon–like creature , who assumes the avatar of a tiger in hunting humans who dare to trespass into his part of the forest. When Dhona, a greedy merchant enters the demon Dokkhin Rai’s territory to collect honey, timber and beeswax without seeking his permission, Dokhin Rai asks for a human sacrifice as penance. Dhona offers the life of the young lad Dukhey to appease the demon. What follows is the story of how Bon Bibi and her brother Shah Jongoli help Dukhey and teach the villains a lesson. While this is basically a story of good vs evil, there is also a deeper message of conservation of the forests and environmental protection.
The original source material , Bon Bibir Johurnama, is written in Bengali meter verse, ‘dwipodi –poyar’. Amitav Ghosh’s English translation is also rendered in poyar- like meter (couplets of twenty- four syllables).This slim volume also features stunning black and white illustrations by Salman Toor which perfectly complement the text. I had heard rave reviews of the audio narration of this book and was happy to pair my reading with the audiobook for an immersive experience. Ali Sethi’s narration is brilliant and the accompanying melodious score is captivating .
Listening to this short yet immensely entertaining audiobook transported me back to my childhood and fond memories of my late father (to whom I credit my love for books and reading) reading folk and fairy tales of Bengal (Thakurmar Jhuli) to me. I remember him voicing the characters and making the stories come alive with his narration – an experience we both enjoyed. If he were alive today, I am sure he would have loved Ali Sethi’s rendering of Amitav Ghosh’s Jungle Nama.
I’ll admit that The Hungry Tide was not my favorite Amitav Ghosh novel. But I loved the backdrop of the Sundarbans and the lore surrounding it. Jungle Nama is a commendable effort in bringing the folklore of the Sundarbans to a wider audience. I only wish it covered the complete tales of Bon Bibi and just not part of the story. This is a wonderful and entertaining read for both children and adults. I'm thrilled to add this to my personal collection.
My Rating for the book: 4/5
My rating for the audio: 5/5
February 25, 2023
A short and sweet poetry with illustrations which can be devoured in a single sitting.
Its an adaption of a Bengali folklore on Bon Bibi - the Forest Goddess.
It pivots around human greed for accumulating, on the expense of forest aka nature.
There's wisdom, blindness, envy, promises, deception and forgiveness in this simple and yet powerful narration.
Note: The audiobook experience is immersive. Highly recommended. Here's a trailer: Audio Book - Amitav Ghosh's Jungle Nama Narrated by Ali Sethi | HarperBroadcast
Its an adaption of a Bengali folklore on Bon Bibi - the Forest Goddess.
It pivots around human greed for accumulating, on the expense of forest aka nature.
There's wisdom, blindness, envy, promises, deception and forgiveness in this simple and yet powerful narration.
Note: The audiobook experience is immersive. Highly recommended. Here's a trailer: Audio Book - Amitav Ghosh's Jungle Nama Narrated by Ali Sethi | HarperBroadcast
June 5, 2023
I’m no poet so I’ll start with my favourite verse:
“You’re wrong there Dhona”, said Dokkhin Rai with a laugh.
“I have no need for coins, or that kind of stuff.
What I love best is the taste of human blood; there’s no scarcer thing in this realm of mangroves and mud.
There was a time once when I once hunted far and wide;
then came some rude strangers and confined me inside.
Unable to leave, I’ve long had to nurture my thirst;
but you’ve solved my problem by coming here first.
All you need do is give up a chosen victim;
I’ll fill your ships with goods if I can but have him.”
I chose this novella as a distraction to get me through reading a grunt of hard-to-read books I’ve been slogging through lately. Ghosh is one of my favourite authors, so it was a welcome break. Especially since it relates to the folklore told in his book The Hungry Tide (my favourite book of Ghosh’s).
I haven’t read much poetry, in fact I didn’t realise this was poetry until I had it (derrrr) so my comments could be basic. What I loved was the storytelling through poem. The words rhymed in writing, but not quite phonetically. I’m sure there’s a term for that, but it impressed me nonetheless. It widened the choice of rhyming words usable.
The subject was folklore in the Sundarbans, near the delta of the Ganges (straddled across Bangladesh and India). As unsexy as it is, I love mangroves so I had to read it. I love humankind’s attempt at living there and how nature seems to keep people at bay. And I love hungry tigers. So it was a hit for me.
“You’re wrong there Dhona”, said Dokkhin Rai with a laugh.
“I have no need for coins, or that kind of stuff.
What I love best is the taste of human blood; there’s no scarcer thing in this realm of mangroves and mud.
There was a time once when I once hunted far and wide;
then came some rude strangers and confined me inside.
Unable to leave, I’ve long had to nurture my thirst;
but you’ve solved my problem by coming here first.
All you need do is give up a chosen victim;
I’ll fill your ships with goods if I can but have him.”
I chose this novella as a distraction to get me through reading a grunt of hard-to-read books I’ve been slogging through lately. Ghosh is one of my favourite authors, so it was a welcome break. Especially since it relates to the folklore told in his book The Hungry Tide (my favourite book of Ghosh’s).
I haven’t read much poetry, in fact I didn’t realise this was poetry until I had it (derrrr) so my comments could be basic. What I loved was the storytelling through poem. The words rhymed in writing, but not quite phonetically. I’m sure there’s a term for that, but it impressed me nonetheless. It widened the choice of rhyming words usable.
The subject was folklore in the Sundarbans, near the delta of the Ganges (straddled across Bangladesh and India). As unsexy as it is, I love mangroves so I had to read it. I love humankind’s attempt at living there and how nature seems to keep people at bay. And I love hungry tigers. So it was a hit for me.
January 11, 2022
Story- 3.5 star
Audiobook- 5+ star
This 88 pages novella is Amitav Gosh's first foray into verse writing. It's a kinda retelling of folklore related to Bon bibi, the goddess of the forest of Sundarban. And, though the book feels like a children's book story, it undoubtedly has a deeper message of greed and climate change.
The writing is lyrical and flowery but what made me give 4 🌟, is the dramatized audiobook narration by Ali Sethi. Listening to this audiobook felt like listening to folk 'Katha' filled with a central story and songs in different languages.
Audiobook- 5+ star
This 88 pages novella is Amitav Gosh's first foray into verse writing. It's a kinda retelling of folklore related to Bon bibi, the goddess of the forest of Sundarban. And, though the book feels like a children's book story, it undoubtedly has a deeper message of greed and climate change.
The writing is lyrical and flowery but what made me give 4 🌟, is the dramatized audiobook narration by Ali Sethi. Listening to this audiobook felt like listening to folk 'Katha' filled with a central story and songs in different languages.
February 16, 2022
This is a fun book, a performance actually, of a folklore retold in verse. The book reminded me of watching a "Therukoothu" or "Villupattu" - with the singing and the music.
The original print version of this legend, dating back to the nineteenth century, is composed in a Bengali verse meter known as dwipodi poyar. As an appreciation it tells the moral story of the cunning Dokkhin Rai of Sunderbans and the benevolent goddess Bob Bibi.
The simplicity of the story is perfect for the tone adopted.
Best enjoyed as an audiobook
The original print version of this legend, dating back to the nineteenth century, is composed in a Bengali verse meter known as dwipodi poyar. As an appreciation it tells the moral story of the cunning Dokkhin Rai of Sunderbans and the benevolent goddess Bob Bibi.
The simplicity of the story is perfect for the tone adopted.
Best enjoyed as an audiobook
October 28, 2022
I'd never read anything by Ghosh before, but spotted this thin volume in the library while shelving one day and thought I'd give it a go. It's a retelling in verse of a local Indian legend about Dhona, a greedy merchant who arrives in the mangrove swamps to exploit their resources. To gain wealth he is willing to sacrifice his destitute cousin, Dhukey, to placate Dokkhin Rai, a jungle-dwelling demon that takes the form of a man-eating tiger.
However, Dhukey's mother, distrustful of their cousin, prepared her son for trouble, telling him that if he calls on the goddess Bon Bibi in dwipodi-poyar (rhyming couplets of 24 syllables), she will rescue him. I loved this idea of poetry itself saving the day.
The legend is told, then, in that very Bengali verse style. The insistence on rhyme sometimes necessitates slightly silly word choices, but the text feels very musical. Beyond the fairly obvious messages of forgiveness-
-and not grasping for more than you need-
-I appreciated the idea of ordered verse replicating, or even creating, the order of nature:
However, Dhukey's mother, distrustful of their cousin, prepared her son for trouble, telling him that if he calls on the goddess Bon Bibi in dwipodi-poyar (rhyming couplets of 24 syllables), she will rescue him. I loved this idea of poetry itself saving the day.
The legend is told, then, in that very Bengali verse style. The insistence on rhyme sometimes necessitates slightly silly word choices, but the text feels very musical. Beyond the fairly obvious messages of forgiveness-
But you must forgive him, rascal though he is;
to hate forever is to fall into an abyss.
-and not grasping for more than you need-
All you need do, is be content with what you've got;
to be always craving more, is a demon's lot.
-I appreciated the idea of ordered verse replicating, or even creating, the order of nature:
Thus did Bon Bibi create a dispensation,
that brought peace to the beings of the Sundarban;
every creature had a place, every want was met,
all needs were balanced, like the lines of a couplet.
February 15, 2021
Last year when Cyclone Amphan struck the eastern coast of India, West Bengal witnessed destruction unforeseen in the last two centuries. Experts said, had it not been for the mangroves of Sundarbans, the devastation would have been manifold. Even before Amphan, these mangroves have been acting as a natural shield from widespread destruction time and again.
While there is science behind the ‘protective shield’ of mangroves, locals in Sundarbans believe it is the mercy of Bon Bibi that keeps them alive. Bon Bibi (or the Lady of the Forests) is a mythical figure who is considered as the protector of the realms of the Sundarbans. Bon Bibi is worshipped and revered by Hindus and Muslims alike, which makes her cult even more fascinating.
Amitav Ghosh’s latest work ‘Jungle Nama’ is a retelling of the lore of Bon Bibi. Based loosely on the Bonbibi'r Johurnama (composed by Munshi Mohammad Kathir and Abdur Rahim Sahib) the Jnanpith award winning author tells us the story of Dukhe, and how he was blessed by Bon Bibi in the face of adversity – Dokkhin Rai.
Full Review: https://antorjatikbangali.wordpress.c...
While there is science behind the ‘protective shield’ of mangroves, locals in Sundarbans believe it is the mercy of Bon Bibi that keeps them alive. Bon Bibi (or the Lady of the Forests) is a mythical figure who is considered as the protector of the realms of the Sundarbans. Bon Bibi is worshipped and revered by Hindus and Muslims alike, which makes her cult even more fascinating.
Amitav Ghosh’s latest work ‘Jungle Nama’ is a retelling of the lore of Bon Bibi. Based loosely on the Bonbibi'r Johurnama (composed by Munshi Mohammad Kathir and Abdur Rahim Sahib) the Jnanpith award winning author tells us the story of Dukhe, and how he was blessed by Bon Bibi in the face of adversity – Dokkhin Rai.
Full Review: https://antorjatikbangali.wordpress.c...
May 22, 2021
Enjoyed Ghosh's foray into verse - specifically the metered style of dwipodi-poyer which is the original meter in which Abdur Rahim has written the epic Miracle of Bon Bibi. Salman Toor's illustrations was also something else - quite 'illuminating' as Ghosh himself describes them.
The actual story of Jungle Nama is one I have read before - in Ghosh's The Hungry Tide. Since I wanted to read more of the folklore, I was disappointed that Ghosh didn't include more of the epic and chose to retell the same substory that we get in Hungry Tide. Appreciate the writing style and illustrations but the content was lacking. I WANT the whole epic pls. I want more of Bon Bibi.
The actual story of Jungle Nama is one I have read before - in Ghosh's The Hungry Tide. Since I wanted to read more of the folklore, I was disappointed that Ghosh didn't include more of the epic and chose to retell the same substory that we get in Hungry Tide. Appreciate the writing style and illustrations but the content was lacking. I WANT the whole epic pls. I want more of Bon Bibi.
September 15, 2021
Hooter: A mythological folklore in the form of dwipodi-poyer (metering in couplets)
Amitav Ghosh tries the art of writing verse metering in about 24 syllables per couplet or roughly 12 per line. Technically challenging no doubt and you have to appreciate him for that attempt. Getting over the technicalities, this is a spin off from his "Hungry Tide" about the legend of Bon Bibi and Dokkhin Rai - a fable that has a lot of history associated around Sunderbans and is a local legend lasting over centuries and generations through oral history.
With the illustrations and easy flowing language, this easily falls under the genre of children's books considering it's petite size too with a moral to end the fable with.
Amitav Ghosh tries the art of writing verse metering in about 24 syllables per couplet or roughly 12 per line. Technically challenging no doubt and you have to appreciate him for that attempt. Getting over the technicalities, this is a spin off from his "Hungry Tide" about the legend of Bon Bibi and Dokkhin Rai - a fable that has a lot of history associated around Sunderbans and is a local legend lasting over centuries and generations through oral history.
With the illustrations and easy flowing language, this easily falls under the genre of children's books considering it's petite size too with a moral to end the fable with.
July 25, 2022
Listen to hear Ali sethi have fun and for the only Indian book on audible that doesn't pronounce names unbearably
March 30, 2025
A fable, a poetic and visually immersive retelling of a bengali folktale from the Sundarbans, blending mythology, nature, and human emotion...
Jungle Nama is a aptly crafted narrative that resonates with both simplicity and profundity. In just a few short pages, this fable weaves together a deep, thoughtful exploration of nature, its untamed beauty, and the timeless bond between humans and the wild. What I deeply appreciate about the book is its brevity—it doesn't linger unnecessarily, yet each word feels purposeful, every character impactful.
The writing is rich, yet concise enough to capture the essence of the jungle’s enigmatic force !!
.. another striking feature of Jungle Nama is the collaboration between Ghosh’s lyrical prose and the evocative illustrations by Toor. These illustrations are not just a visual accompaniment; they are integral to the narrative, enriching the text in ways words alone cannot. They draw you into the world of the jungle, turning the story from a mere reading experience into an immersive journey.
This tale is as much a visual feast as it is a literary one, and one that will leave an indelible impression.
#aleafunturned
Jungle Nama is a aptly crafted narrative that resonates with both simplicity and profundity. In just a few short pages, this fable weaves together a deep, thoughtful exploration of nature, its untamed beauty, and the timeless bond between humans and the wild. What I deeply appreciate about the book is its brevity—it doesn't linger unnecessarily, yet each word feels purposeful, every character impactful.
The writing is rich, yet concise enough to capture the essence of the jungle’s enigmatic force !!
.. another striking feature of Jungle Nama is the collaboration between Ghosh’s lyrical prose and the evocative illustrations by Toor. These illustrations are not just a visual accompaniment; they are integral to the narrative, enriching the text in ways words alone cannot. They draw you into the world of the jungle, turning the story from a mere reading experience into an immersive journey.
This tale is as much a visual feast as it is a literary one, and one that will leave an indelible impression.
#aleafunturned
January 5, 2022
Jungle Nama is an adaptation from the legend of Bon Bibi. Her tales are popular in the Sunderbans. The book is written in verse and is immensely captivating. The basic premise is the victory of good over evil and the audio book experience was super dramatic and enjoyable.
The story is about a rich & covetous merchant Dhona, a poor lad Dukhey, Dokkhin Rai who is the spirit of the jungle, Bon bibi, the goddess and her brother Shah Jongoli.
I thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Ali Sethi on @storytel along with reading it on kindle. The narration added to the overall feel of the book. It's a quick and interesting read which can be enjoyed by adults as well as children.
#bookhoarderrecommendation - A superb book to read along with kids.
The story is about a rich & covetous merchant Dhona, a poor lad Dukhey, Dokkhin Rai who is the spirit of the jungle, Bon bibi, the goddess and her brother Shah Jongoli.
I thoroughly enjoyed the narration by Ali Sethi on @storytel along with reading it on kindle. The narration added to the overall feel of the book. It's a quick and interesting read which can be enjoyed by adults as well as children.
#bookhoarderrecommendation - A superb book to read along with kids.
May 22, 2024
Story of human-forest relationship in Sundarbans beautifully told in Bengali poetic meter
January 31, 2022
Listened to the audio. What fun! The legend of Dukhin Rao, Bon Beebi and Dukhey. The Music and singing made my morning walks pleasurable.
September 17, 2024
Amitav Ghosh's Jungle Nama is a captivating poetic retelling of a classic Bengali folktale set in the lush, mysterious mangrove forests of the Sundarbans.
Through his lyrical, summoning verse, Ghosh transports the reader into this enchanting world, weaving a spellbinding narrative that blends myth, history, and the natural splendor of the region.
The poem follows the legendary story of Bon Bibi, a benevolent goddess who protects the villagers from the dangers of the jungle, and her brother Shah Jongoli. With his masterful command of language, Ghosh brings this timeless tale to life through and words and Salman Toor through his art by painting vivid images of the towering mangrove trees and the myriad creatures that inhabit this fragile ecosystem.
As the narrative unfolds, the reader is immersed in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the dark landscape, experiencing the majesty and peril of the Sundarbans alongside the human and mythical protagonists. Through his poetic retelling, Ghosh not only preserves a cherished piece of Bengali folklore but also offers a profound meditation on the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.
Jungle Nama is a lyrical tour de force, a work that captivates the senses and lingers in the mind long after the final lines have been read.
Through his lyrical, summoning verse, Ghosh transports the reader into this enchanting world, weaving a spellbinding narrative that blends myth, history, and the natural splendor of the region.
The poem follows the legendary story of Bon Bibi, a benevolent goddess who protects the villagers from the dangers of the jungle, and her brother Shah Jongoli. With his masterful command of language, Ghosh brings this timeless tale to life through and words and Salman Toor through his art by painting vivid images of the towering mangrove trees and the myriad creatures that inhabit this fragile ecosystem.
As the narrative unfolds, the reader is immersed in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the dark landscape, experiencing the majesty and peril of the Sundarbans alongside the human and mythical protagonists. Through his poetic retelling, Ghosh not only preserves a cherished piece of Bengali folklore but also offers a profound meditation on the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world.
Jungle Nama is a lyrical tour de force, a work that captivates the senses and lingers in the mind long after the final lines have been read.
June 7, 2025
Really wish someday Amitav Ghosh would reimagine the tale of Bonbibi in the contemporary context and turn it into a novel.
November 9, 2021
Questo libro, edito in Italia con Neri Pozza Editore, è una storia ricca di significato. Si legge davvero in un soffio, sia grazie ai momenti di pausa in cui si possono ammirare le illustrazioni, che grazie alla scorrevolezza della storia, che anche alla struttura in rima che gli dà un ritmo veloce e incalzante.
Questo libro è la metafora dell’ingordigia, della corruzione, del malvagio; ma anche del riscatto, della fede e della ricompensa.
È una storia che sa di antico, di quelle ricche di cultura che ti raccontano le nonne per insegnarti a vivere. Per insegnarti che il rapporto tra uomo e natura, per vivere in equilibrio, deve essere necessariamente regolato dal rispetto.
È una bella storia che ci fa conoscere culture diverse, che ci fa riflettere, e che ci fa passare qualche istante immersi nella giunga di mangrovie.
Insomma, lo consiglio assolutamente. È una lettura perfetta per i momenti di stacco, ma anche da accompagnare a libri più “pesanti”. Ed è perfetta per chi, come me, ogni tanto ha bisogno di ricordarsi che un tempo l’uomo e la natura vivevano in totale simbiosi.
Vi informo che acquistando questo libro contribuite anche a piantare nuovi alberi nella foresta.
Questo libro è la metafora dell’ingordigia, della corruzione, del malvagio; ma anche del riscatto, della fede e della ricompensa.
È una storia che sa di antico, di quelle ricche di cultura che ti raccontano le nonne per insegnarti a vivere. Per insegnarti che il rapporto tra uomo e natura, per vivere in equilibrio, deve essere necessariamente regolato dal rispetto.
È una bella storia che ci fa conoscere culture diverse, che ci fa riflettere, e che ci fa passare qualche istante immersi nella giunga di mangrovie.
Insomma, lo consiglio assolutamente. È una lettura perfetta per i momenti di stacco, ma anche da accompagnare a libri più “pesanti”. Ed è perfetta per chi, come me, ogni tanto ha bisogno di ricordarsi che un tempo l’uomo e la natura vivevano in totale simbiosi.
Vi informo che acquistando questo libro contribuite anche a piantare nuovi alberi nella foresta.
January 31, 2022
Story: 3.5 stars.
Audiobook : 5 stars.
Jungle Nama by Amitav Ghosh narrated by Ali Sethi (I listened on Storytel) is a great book to listen instead of reading, according to me.
Ali Sethi added a vibrant musical vibe to the story which make listeners attract to the story. This book has been in my readlist since released. But Storytel made me to listen and so thankful for it.
The book can be easily finished in 1.30 hours on audiobook , in just single sitting. Talking about the book (Hardcopy),artwork in the book is stunning and just perfect for the story.
Jungle Nama is Amitav Ghosh's verse adaptation from 'The Legend of Bon Bibi' , a tale popular in the villages of Sunderban.
It is the story of the self-centered rich merchant Dhona, the poor lad Dukkhey, and his mother; it is also the story of Dokkhin Rai, a mighty spirit who appears to humans as a tiger, of Bon Bibi, the benign goddess of the forest, and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli.
This tale of self-centered nature and greed is perfect for readers at any age. And the words and art in the book is immersive and keep you hooked.
Remarkable all around !
Audiobook : 5 stars.
Jungle Nama by Amitav Ghosh narrated by Ali Sethi (I listened on Storytel) is a great book to listen instead of reading, according to me.
Ali Sethi added a vibrant musical vibe to the story which make listeners attract to the story. This book has been in my readlist since released. But Storytel made me to listen and so thankful for it.
The book can be easily finished in 1.30 hours on audiobook , in just single sitting. Talking about the book (Hardcopy),artwork in the book is stunning and just perfect for the story.
Jungle Nama is Amitav Ghosh's verse adaptation from 'The Legend of Bon Bibi' , a tale popular in the villages of Sunderban.
It is the story of the self-centered rich merchant Dhona, the poor lad Dukkhey, and his mother; it is also the story of Dokkhin Rai, a mighty spirit who appears to humans as a tiger, of Bon Bibi, the benign goddess of the forest, and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli.
This tale of self-centered nature and greed is perfect for readers at any age. And the words and art in the book is immersive and keep you hooked.
Remarkable all around !
February 14, 2021
Wonderful book. Took me back to many of childhood stories about the Sunderban. Amitav Ghosh surprises with his mastery and in a very innovative way!
October 24, 2021
The audiobook was so good!!
Thank you Amitavjii for writing such a beautiful piece❤
Thank you Amitavjii for writing such a beautiful piece❤
April 28, 2023
beautiful, simple, effective, with incredible illustrations and page accents to tie it all together neatly
May 7, 2023
A really interesting Bengali folk tale told in verse, different to anything else I've read so far.
November 30, 2021
Amitav Ghosh has ventured into Vikram Seth territory with this attempt to tell a story in verse. The book gives a quick and more accessible taste of The Hungry Tide, which I haven't yet read.
The combination of story and verse and Salman Toor's illustrations makes Jungle Nama an attractive book. It's a really nice book to own.
The combination of story and verse and Salman Toor's illustrations makes Jungle Nama an attractive book. It's a really nice book to own.
March 9, 2022
Delightful read! Finished it in one go. Must read for those who enjoyed The Hungry Tide! Also, a book worth collecting for its beautiful cover and illustrations.
April 10, 2021
Folklore in verse. The kind that sounds like a children’s story but feels like it has deeper lessons - of living with nature, sharing of resources, respecting boundaries. The black and white drawings are a bonus. A lovely book that would make a perfect gift to a child or an adult.
February 27, 2021
Amitav Ghosh's Jungle Nama: a story of the Sundarbans illuminated by Salman Toor is an ode to the place that meter plays in verse and poems. It has Ghosh, a master of words doffing his hat to the writing style of Bengali folk literature, bringing to us a part of the legend of Bon Bibi who readers of The Hungry Tide will be familiar with.
Told in vivid imaginative verse,the story is one of adventure, of human greed and temptations that can make the best intentions go off track. It's a book you can read in a sitting but never that will leave you captivated. I ended up reading aloud the words and could feel the play of rhythm.
The core of the story is one of compassion and forgiveness, that we learn how to appreciate what we have and not be carried away by the madness for more. This special hardback edition is gorgeous to behold and works for both readers who love reading something with literary bent as well as a fable that a child will be totally relate to. The illustrations add a raw power to the story and adds one more solid reason to go get this book.
Told in vivid imaginative verse,the story is one of adventure, of human greed and temptations that can make the best intentions go off track. It's a book you can read in a sitting but never that will leave you captivated. I ended up reading aloud the words and could feel the play of rhythm.
The core of the story is one of compassion and forgiveness, that we learn how to appreciate what we have and not be carried away by the madness for more. This special hardback edition is gorgeous to behold and works for both readers who love reading something with literary bent as well as a fable that a child will be totally relate to. The illustrations add a raw power to the story and adds one more solid reason to go get this book.
September 7, 2021
This is my third Ghosh. I loved The Hungry Tide, disliked The Calcutta Chromosome and enjoyed The Jungle Nama.
Ghosh writes a portion of the legend of Bon Bibi, Goddess of the Sunderban Forest in verse form in this stunningly published printed hardcover. He writes the entire tale of Bon Bibi and Dokkhin Rai, set in the mystical Sunderbans in a specific meter that has 24 syllables in a couplet. I rarely read poetry, but I love tales from Indian mythology and I enjoyed this one. Dokkhin Rai, a demon that shape-shifts into a tiger and terrorises humans, killing and eating them at will, is challenged by Bon Bibi and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli. The story is also about Dhona and wealthy, greedy merchant and Dukhey a poor boy and the only son of his wise mother. Through the story, Ghosh explores themes of human greed, boundaries, love, compassion and honour. The Bon Bibi legend is also at the heart of The Hungry Tide.
The illuminations by Salman Toor are darkly fascinating and compliment the text well. Another quick read to end the month.
Ghosh writes a portion of the legend of Bon Bibi, Goddess of the Sunderban Forest in verse form in this stunningly published printed hardcover. He writes the entire tale of Bon Bibi and Dokkhin Rai, set in the mystical Sunderbans in a specific meter that has 24 syllables in a couplet. I rarely read poetry, but I love tales from Indian mythology and I enjoyed this one. Dokkhin Rai, a demon that shape-shifts into a tiger and terrorises humans, killing and eating them at will, is challenged by Bon Bibi and her warrior brother Shah Jongoli. The story is also about Dhona and wealthy, greedy merchant and Dukhey a poor boy and the only son of his wise mother. Through the story, Ghosh explores themes of human greed, boundaries, love, compassion and honour. The Bon Bibi legend is also at the heart of The Hungry Tide.
The illuminations by Salman Toor are darkly fascinating and compliment the text well. Another quick read to end the month.
March 8, 2022
I have half an ascetic and half hedonistic attitude to fiction. There is a desire to enjoy its delights and yet I am able to resist the temptation till I give in or reach a neutral note where I sample the offering of a writer. Perhaps that's why Amitav Gosh's Junglenama was such a joy and I lingered over the many notes of this verse adaptation.
This is a superlative piece of environment writing from South Asia that has a compelling tale, great poetry, and music. I listened to the audiobook and found the poetry and the story of the Sundarbans like a musical rooted in the familiar language yet at home in the world. Its theme was a lesson for me that's life's greatest joy is contentment and that nature and humans live together and this fine balance must be respected.
It brings the Sundarbans to life where there is a constant tussle between tigers and humans. Dokkhin Rai is a demon in tiger avatar who has been relegated to the forest by the compassionate Bon Bibi and Shahjongoli. It brings out the neat division we tend to draw between the forest and the human realms and how they overlap.
I loved the character of Dukhai the sad lad who accompanies his uncle in his fleet of ships to get the riches of the forest. Dukhai's mother the wise old woman who is not swayed by the lure of riches or going to foreign shores "Pardes" is brought to life by the voice of Ali Sethi. She reluctantly send her son with her kin with the advice to use the metre of wonder and call Bon Bibi the compassionate forest deity if he is in danger.
Just as she suspected the tiger demon smells greed enter his forests and uses his powers to fill the forests with hives and wax. He then asks Dhuna to leave the sad lad Dukhai in exchange for trespassing into his territory. Dhuna betrays the lad and leaves him in the forest for the tiger Dukhin Rai. The lad is now truly dukhi about to be eaten by a tiger and remembers the metre of wonder the Bob Bibi prayer. The forest goddess responds and saves him. Dhuno goes back without the lad and all the forest riches. When the old mother is heartbroken Bon Bibi sends her son back to her. The theme rings out that lifes richest joy is that of contentment and that is what our munshis have learned.
The book captures the cadence and musicality of Bengali verse and is richly studded with Hindi words and even south Indian words like "pisach" or evil spirit that might have made their way to the English language. The language, verse, and poetry weave together a delightful tale of a tiger, bunch of humans with a range of emotions and a feminine forest deity. Especially that greed is dangerous and contentment is a gift.
This is a superlative piece of environment writing from South Asia that has a compelling tale, great poetry, and music. I listened to the audiobook and found the poetry and the story of the Sundarbans like a musical rooted in the familiar language yet at home in the world. Its theme was a lesson for me that's life's greatest joy is contentment and that nature and humans live together and this fine balance must be respected.
It brings the Sundarbans to life where there is a constant tussle between tigers and humans. Dokkhin Rai is a demon in tiger avatar who has been relegated to the forest by the compassionate Bon Bibi and Shahjongoli. It brings out the neat division we tend to draw between the forest and the human realms and how they overlap.
I loved the character of Dukhai the sad lad who accompanies his uncle in his fleet of ships to get the riches of the forest. Dukhai's mother the wise old woman who is not swayed by the lure of riches or going to foreign shores "Pardes" is brought to life by the voice of Ali Sethi. She reluctantly send her son with her kin with the advice to use the metre of wonder and call Bon Bibi the compassionate forest deity if he is in danger.
Just as she suspected the tiger demon smells greed enter his forests and uses his powers to fill the forests with hives and wax. He then asks Dhuna to leave the sad lad Dukhai in exchange for trespassing into his territory. Dhuna betrays the lad and leaves him in the forest for the tiger Dukhin Rai. The lad is now truly dukhi about to be eaten by a tiger and remembers the metre of wonder the Bob Bibi prayer. The forest goddess responds and saves him. Dhuno goes back without the lad and all the forest riches. When the old mother is heartbroken Bon Bibi sends her son back to her. The theme rings out that lifes richest joy is that of contentment and that is what our munshis have learned.
The book captures the cadence and musicality of Bengali verse and is richly studded with Hindi words and even south Indian words like "pisach" or evil spirit that might have made their way to the English language. The language, verse, and poetry weave together a delightful tale of a tiger, bunch of humans with a range of emotions and a feminine forest deity. Especially that greed is dangerous and contentment is a gift.
January 31, 2023
If you are into reading books, then you would have probably heard of Amitav Ghosh. He is a prominent name in the Indian literary circles and is also a recipient of Jnanpith Award. I always stayed away from mainstream books. Amitav Ghosh’s books seemed so mainstream, I never thought of reading his works. But while browsing through a bookshop in Leh, Ladakh, a book cover caught my attention. It was Amitav Ghosh’s Jungle Nama. As you must have guessed, I bought that book to enter the world of one of the greatest Indian literary celebrities.
Jungle Nama is based on one of the chapters of The Legend of Bon Bibi. It is written in the form of poetry. This is a story of morals with a link to local mythology, anchored in reality, for both kids and adults alike. Particularly this story talks about greed - how a wealthy merchant makes a pact with a regional deity or a demigod, Dokkhin Rai, who often shape-shifts into a Royal Bengal Tiger and is restricted to the areas of Sunderbans, to leave his relative as food in exchange for honey and wax, but are punished by Bon Bibi and her twin brother Shah Jongoli.
I found it good to read Jungle Nama aloud. There are quite a few Bengali/Bangla words, so it is better to read in the same accent, for fun as well as it gives a sense of relevance. There are a few moderately difficult words used in the book, which make a good addition to the readers’ English vocabulary. Most of all, the Afterword of this book is as precious as the story. The last time I was so mesmerised by someone’s writing was while reading Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights by Salman Rushdie. There was no need for a bookmark while reading Jungle Nama as I finished reading it in one go! I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am no longer skeptical about reading a mainstream Amitav Ghosh’s book. While the writing is great, the illustrations aren’t so. Although the last few pages of the book praise the illustrations by Salman Toor, I thought they could have helped glorify the story better, especially because this is based on mythology. Nevertheless, I definitely recommend reading Jungle Nama.
Jungle Nama is based on one of the chapters of The Legend of Bon Bibi. It is written in the form of poetry. This is a story of morals with a link to local mythology, anchored in reality, for both kids and adults alike. Particularly this story talks about greed - how a wealthy merchant makes a pact with a regional deity or a demigod, Dokkhin Rai, who often shape-shifts into a Royal Bengal Tiger and is restricted to the areas of Sunderbans, to leave his relative as food in exchange for honey and wax, but are punished by Bon Bibi and her twin brother Shah Jongoli.
I found it good to read Jungle Nama aloud. There are quite a few Bengali/Bangla words, so it is better to read in the same accent, for fun as well as it gives a sense of relevance. There are a few moderately difficult words used in the book, which make a good addition to the readers’ English vocabulary. Most of all, the Afterword of this book is as precious as the story. The last time I was so mesmerised by someone’s writing was while reading Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights by Salman Rushdie. There was no need for a bookmark while reading Jungle Nama as I finished reading it in one go! I thoroughly enjoyed the book and am no longer skeptical about reading a mainstream Amitav Ghosh’s book. While the writing is great, the illustrations aren’t so. Although the last few pages of the book praise the illustrations by Salman Toor, I thought they could have helped glorify the story better, especially because this is based on mythology. Nevertheless, I definitely recommend reading Jungle Nama.
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