Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla today inaugurated “Arcaen”, an anthology of folklore, at Raj Bhavan. This extensive collection is the result of a collaborative effort by final-year B.A. English Honours and M.A. English students, under the mentorship of Snigdha Bhatt and Asmita Sharma, Assistant Professors in the English Department at St. Bede’s College, Shimla.
“Arcaen” weaves a rich tapestry of stories that reflect the cultural heritage of various communities, providing profound insights into shared human experiences. The anthology serves as a valuable repository of cultural wisdom, preserving oral traditions and offering narratives passed down through generations. With its diverse stories and universal themes, it emphasizes resilience, the strength of community bonds, and the deep connection between people and their environment.
At the launch, the Governor praised St. Bede’s College for this remarkable initiative, which not only gave students the platform to showcase their writing abilities but also encouraged them to explore and document the cultural stories of their regions. He also commended Prof. Molly Abraham for her leadership and vision in guiding students to delve into oral traditions that form the bedrock of many cultures.
The Governor highlighted the enduring importance of preserving oral traditions and acknowledged the anthology’s role in deepening appreciation for storytelling and collective cultural experiences. He expressed his hope that “Arcaen” would inspire further efforts to document and celebrate the rich folklore of Himachal Pradesh and beyond.
The event concluded with an interactive session where students shared their experiences working on the anthology, reflecting on the importance of preserving cultural narratives for future generations. The ceremony was attended by Prof. Molly Abraham, Principal of St. Bede’s College, alongside Snigdha Bhatt, Asmita Sharma, and students Kanupriya and Harshita Thakur.
