LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL IDENTITY OF THE SHERSHABADIA COMMUNITY IN BENGAL, BIHAR, AND JHARKHAND

Abstract:
This study explores the Shershabadia language, culture, and community, predominantly located in Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Originating from the historical term ‘Sarsabad,’ this community’s name and identity evolved through the Mughal and British periods. Rooted in the fertile Jawar-e-Sarsabad division, Shershabadia communities today trace their heritage through complex intermixing with agrarian societies in Murshidabad, Malda, and neighbouring regions.
Linguistically, the Shershabadia dialect reflects influences from neighbouring dialects, including Kamtapuri, Maithili, and Jharkhandi, and is noted for its distinct intonation, admired for clarity, and nuanced vocal patterns. This dialect acts as a cultural bridge and retains influences from both Hindu and Islamic traditions, demonstrated in marriage customs, folk performances like Gantira and Alkap, and everyday speech patterns. Shershabadia folk literature, including riddles, songs, and poetry, serves as a repository of cultural identity, contributing richly to regional literature.
This study further reviews significant works on Shershabadia society, beginning with Abdus Samad’s pioneering 1987 book and followed by contributions from scholars like Mir Rezaul Karim and Nurul Hasan. Contemporary Shershabadia poetry, rooted in agrarian life, reflects the community’s struggles and identity, with publications that have gradually preserved their oral traditions.