Kilbe

Kilbe is written and illustrated by Katta Nisa. Told through the rich rhythm of Garo onomatopoeia, 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.

Kilbe is set in the fictional village of Tekarachu Takilkila Gre, where young Otse notices a semal tree bolchu) untouched by the cotton merchants. Moved by its neglect, she promises to love it always. Through the seasons of her life, she continues collecting bolchu. In old age, she tells her granddaughter Due that the bolchu taught her more about love than anyone else. When Otse passes away, Due finds a strange, wordless creature emerging from the bolchu basket. She names it Kilbe, and the two form a deep bond.

One day, while gathering herbs for Due’s uncle, they venture into a vibrant forest alive with birds, insects, and the sound of rain. Seeking shelter from a storm, they approach a cave where a fearful voice warns them away. Kilbe, instead of retreating, offers flowers it has grown from the rainwater in its body. The voice belongs to Tongte Gongge, a creature with gnome-like attributes and with inverted feet. Touched by Kilbe’s gesture, Tongte asks to play.

The three, Due, Kilbe, and Tongte, dance joyfully after the storm, breaking barriers of fear and misunderstanding. Drawing from Garo tribal onomatopoeia and folklore, the story blends themes of unconditional love, acceptance, and the human tendency to misjudge what is different. Tongte Gongge, feared in local myth, becomes a symbol of the flawed yet gentle sides of humanity, while Kilbe embodies the purity of love that bridges divides.

This 24-page book is available in English, Khasi, Pnar, Garo, Tamil– with more translations to come on Storyweaver by Pratham Books.

Focus by Aseema.