Melody March

Melody March has been written by Eleanor Sangma and illustrated by Jesse Kurbah. Told in simple rhymes, the book has been published by Sauramandala Foundation, Meghalaya, as part of The Forgotten Folklore Project (TFFP) which brings to life 65 stories from communities in Meghalaya and other northeastern states of India. The story books, developed in collaboration with local artists, aim to contribute to early childhood education and disseminate knowledge on local nature, culture, foods, garments, kitchens, and more.

The book gives a rhythmic account of musical instruments used in Meghalaya by different communities. From the 'illep' which is a short flute to the 'gongmina', a Garo musical instrument made of bamboo or metal, the book details the sounds made by these instruments. Each instrument is animated in clear illustrations in this 17-page book. It is available in English, Khasi, Pnar, Garo – with more translations to come on Storyweaver by Pratham Books.