Udayan : Tell us something about the present condition of Kurukh language and literature.
Bimal : We’ve been working on Kurukh language and literature for many years. We’re also happy that the language was given the official status in 2017 in West Bengal. Kurukh Literature Academy was set up in March, 2018. Our association organized conferences in Ranchi (2012), Nepal (2015) and Bhutan (2020). Yet many tasks are still remaining. We’ve selected twelve members, three more are to be nominated from the university level. Works get hindered by lack of co-ordination.
Udayan :What are the dominant styles in Kurukh writings?
Bimal : We practise all sorts of writings like short stories, poems, articles etc. We’ve also brought out a grammar of Kurukh language; the compilation needs some revision though.
Udayan : Did you receive any patronage during these active years?
Bimal : None as such. But we have our organization in Alipurduar. We work via our own organization. Actually the problem is many. People do not know the language. That’s why we’re working hard for making a concise vocabulary.
Udayan : What, according to you, is the future of Kurukh?
Bimal : See, many works are being accomplished. We encourage authors to a great extent. Previously many of us derided the status of the language, but after we received the official status, a large section of them has now become interested in writing. Still we have a dearth in quality journal and adequate readership. I would say that works have progressed in states like Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam and Chhattisgarh. But even after having the official status in West Bengal, we are lagging behind. In 2010 I proposed that a writers’ guild should be formed in the national level with a view to promoting the literary activities. The idea was highly appreciated. Let’s see what happens.