Decolonising Ecopedagogical Storytelling: Writing Lotha- Naga Orature through Jasmine Nzanmongi Patton’s A Girl Swallowed by a Tree

Abstract

The dismissal and devaluation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) across the world was one of the multitude facets of colonization. These knowledge systems, containing the accumulation of centuries of information, are almost on the verge of extinction following the imposition of colonial methods of Enlightenment. However, the constantly degrading climatic situation demands awareness and prompt action. This paper attempts to showcase how orally transmitted folklore(s) can be a medium for Ecopedagogy and how this pedagogical system serves as a counter-narrative to the modern anthropocentric, capitalistic landscape. These knowledge systems foster empathy and compassion for Nature and ascribes equal respect to non-human lives featuring a sharp contrast to the ruthless ways of techno-capitalism. The paper observes the transmission of ecological knowledge through Lotha-Naga Oral folklore, specifically the text A Girl Swallowed by a Tree by Jasmine Nzanmongi Patton and how it can help bring up an ecoliterate generation, capable of making better decisions for the planet. It also situates and examines Patton’s work within a larger body of global indigenous framework.