Book Review: Once Upon a Beginning by Nalini Ramachandran

Nalini Ramachandran’s Once Upon a Beginning is a captivating collection of origin stories rooted in the diverse tribal and indigenous cultures of India. Drawing from oral traditions passed down through generations, the book brings together myths that explore the beginnings of the earth, sky, sun, moon, animals, and even human customs. These are not tales from mainstream Hindu epics or classical literature but lesser-known, community-driven narratives that reflect the worldview of Adivasi and folk societies spread across the Indian subcontinent.

The stories are short, vivid, and written in a style accessible to young readers, though they carry a poetic resonance that will appeal to adults as well. From tigers that help gods build worlds to mysterious beings that teach humans language and craft, each tale is filled with wonder and wisdom. Ramachandran writes with care and respect, allowing the original flavor of each myth to shine through, without exoticising or diluting its cultural roots.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its immersive quality. Ramachandran’s narrative voice mimics the rhythms of oral storytelling, drawing readers into a timeless realm where nature and spirit are intertwined. While the stories are fictionalised, they are grounded in deep cultural memory. This makes Once Upon a Beginning not only a collection of imaginative tales but also a subtle educational tool that introduces children and adults alike to India’s rich yet often overlooked indigenous traditions.

However, the book does leave the reader wanting more context. Some stories end too quickly or hint at deeper symbolic meanings that are not elaborated. A brief introduction to the communities from which these stories originate would have added value, especially for readers unfamiliar with the region’s ethnographic diversity. Nevertheless, this sparseness also makes the collection accessible and uncluttered, ideal for young readers or for use in classrooms and storytelling sessions.

Ramachandran, who is already known for her work in folklore and mythology, including Lore of the Land, has a talent for balancing authenticity with readability. Her sensitivity in handling these stories is evident, and she approaches the material not as an outsider but as a storyteller genuinely engaged with the cultures she represents.

Once Upon a Beginning is recommended for readers of all ages who are curious about mythology, culture, and heritage. It will especially resonate with educators, librarians, parents, and children who want to explore stories beyond the mainstream narrative. In an age when oral traditions are increasingly at risk of fading away, this book serves as a small but significant effort to preserve and celebrate them.

In sum, Once Upon a Beginning is a lyrical and enlightening journey into the cultural imagination of India’s tribal communities. It revives age-old stories that explain the mysteries of the world in beautiful and unexpected ways. Though the book could benefit from a little more contextual framing, its contribution to the preservation and celebration of oral heritage is both timely and commendable.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Book: Once Upon a Beginning by Nalini Ramachandran | Publisher: Hachette India Children’s Books | Pages: 232 pages | Price: INR 1299/-