Storytelling as a Decolonial Praxis: Exploring Social Development within the Indian Knowledge System

Abstract

The process of decolonization, frequently analyzed through political and economic frameworks, is fundamentally an intellectual and cultural endeavor. In the Indian context, decolonizing knowledge is imperative for reclaiming indigenous epistemologies that were systematically marginalized during the colonial era. Storytelling, an ancient and vibrant tradition within Indian society, serves as a potent medium for advancing this decolonial project. This chapter examines how storytelling can illuminate the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) to foster social development by reconnecting communities with their cultural heritage and promoting inclusive progress. It analyzes the capacity of traditional narratives—from texts such as the Panchatantra, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata to regional folktales—to facilitate liberation from colonial paradigms. The chapter outlines a framework for integrating storytelling into educational and developmental contexts, critically assesses the associated benefits and challenges, and advocates for a synergistic approach that honors tradition while engaging with modernity. Ultimately, this exploration posits that storytelling offers an enriching and transformative pathway for India's decolonial journey, challenging residual colonial structures and paving the way for sustainable, equitable social development.