Superstition and Religious Beliefs in the Works of Jim Corbett

Abstract

Throughout society, the pervasive presence of superstitions and the attribution of supernatural powers are unmistakable phenomena. Superstition, as defined by Merriam Webster, encapsulates any belief or ritual founded upon one's faith in luck or obscure, irrational, or otherworldly forces. While these convictions exhibit regional disparities, their profound influence on the human psyche remains constant. Within the literary tapestries woven by esteemed authors, one encounters a rich tapestry of superstitions, each weaving its own narrative. Even seemingly fantastical attributions of superstition and supernatural prowess to man-eaters are not without their roots in reality. The ingenuity, intellect, dominance, and sheer might of tigers have elevated these majestic creatures to the status of mythical beings. This study endeavors to dissect the role of the supernatural in shaping the superstitions and traditions of the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, where these beliefs are cherished and passed down through the ages, weaving an intricate web that binds generation after generation.