Why are the Akru’s Horns Curved?, is a delightful story. The title itself arouses a sense of curiosity in both children and adults. Set in Etabe village of the Dibang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh, the tale unfolds through the conversations between young Jeeha and his grandmother, Naya. Their bond of storytelling is something every reader can relate to, as it reminds one of the universal comfort of listening to stories in a grandparent’s lap.
At the heart of the story lies Akru, a strange and fascinating animal. The plot revolves around a humorous yet thought-provoking contest between the Idu Mishmi tribe and the spirits of the mountains (Ngolo/Golos) over Akru’s ownership. The story gently introduces children to broader issues— such as the importance of protecting endangered wildlife, valuing indigenous knowledge, and caring for forests. It makes the readers reflect: if communities, forests, and animals are not cared for, will our jungles one day lose their diversity altogether?
The book’s biggest strength lies in its simplicity, both in language and narration, as it introduces children to folklore and wildlife conservation in a way that is engaging, fun, and easy to follow, both in Hindi and English. We shared the story with our children in the Jeevan Shiksha Pahel school in Bhopal and found them quite engaged and curious throughout the story.
Shrobontika Dasgupta’s illustrations are vivid and engaging, bringing to life the terrain of Dibang Valley, the features of the people, and the appearance of akru. The visuals, alongside the story, create a strong impact which words alone could not achieve. Beyond its entertainment value, the book opens doors to many questions— who are the Idu Mishmi people? Is akru a real animal?
The factual notes at the end of the book provide answers, revealing that the Dibang Valley is India’s least populated district, with just about 14,000 people. The Idu Mishmi tribe depends on jhum cultivation and forest products for livelihood. Readers also learn that akru is, in fact, a goat-antelope found in parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Myanmar, Bhutan, and China.
Some local words (like Mancho, Maye, Tacho) might seem difficult for readers unfamiliar with them. A glossary of such terms would have made the book even more accessible, especially for children.
Overall, Why are Akru’s Horns Curved? is not just a charming folk-inspired tale but also an educational journey to the Dibang valley and the Idu Mishmi community. It keeps alive the rich heritage and culture of India’s Northeastern communities.