ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1974, The Hill of Flutes, is a descriptive account of the Santals and their poetry in their heartland of the Santal Parganas.

The book explores the Santal world view, including approaches to education, love, sex, and marriage. It describes and discusses Santal dances, festivals and ceremonies, and other key events and gatherings, such as annual hunts.

Through the close consideration of song and poetry, The Hills of Flutes offers an engaging insight into life in Santal society.

chapter Chapter I|13 pages

The Santals

chapter Chapter II|26 pages

Early Years

chapter Chapter III|7 pages

Induction to the Tribe

chapter Chapter IV|13 pages

Social Dances

chapter Chapter V|26 pages

The Rules of Sex

chapter Chapter VI|29 pages

The Village Lover

chapter Chapter VII|6 pages

Beyond the Village

chapter Chapter VIII|19 pages

Conflict with the Parents

chapter Chapter IX|12 pages

Accidents

chapter Chapter X|25 pages

Marriage and the Family

chapter Chapter XI|19 pages

Outlets After Marriage the Sohrae Festival

chapter Chapter XII|8 pages

Breakdown and Divorce

chapter Chapter XIII|15 pages

Santals and Sex

chapter Chapter XIV|19 pages

Marriage and Fertility the Baha Festival

chapter Chapter XV|16 pages

Marriage and Fertility the Jiwet’ Karam

chapter Chapter XVI|7 pages

The Wanted Child

chapter Chapter XVII|11 pages

The Bonga Lover

chapter Chapter XVIII|15 pages

Woman as Witch

chapter Chapter XIX|21 pages

The Annual Hunt

chapter Chapter XX|17 pages

Death and Society