Bridging Worlds of Storytelling: A Comparative Study of Mahmud Taymur and Lakshminath Bezbaroa in the Evolution of Arabic and Assamese Short Fiction

This research paper explores the parallel contributions of Maḥmûd Taymûr (1894–1973), the pioneer of the modern Arabic short story, and Lakshminath Bezbaroa (1864–1938), the father of Assamese short fiction, in shaping the literary traditions of their respective cultures. Despite their separation by geography, language, and socio-political contexts, both writers played pivotal roles in transitioning short fiction from oral, folkloric, and moralistic traditions to a refined, modern literary genre. Taymûr’s writings, influenced by European masters such as Maupassant and Chekhov, embody realism, psychological exploration, and social critique, reflecting the tensions of early twentieth-century Egyptian society. Conversely, Bezbaroa, inspired by Assamese folklore and reformist zeal, infused his stories with satire, humour, and social commentary, addressing issues such as women’s status, colonial exploitation, and cultural identity. The comparative study reveals striking similarities in their thematic preoccupations, love, human suffering, social evils, and reform, as well as in their stylistic approaches, where clarity, humour, and symbolic imagery dominate. Both writers gave voice to the marginalised, blended tradition with modernity, and transformed storytelling into a tool for cultural regeneration. By situating their works within their respective historical and intellectual contexts, this paper highlights how Taymûr and Bezbaroa bridged worlds of storytelling, creating a legacy that resonates across Arabic and Assamese literatures. Their contributions underscore the universality of short fiction as a medium for social critique, artistic innovation, and the affirmation of cultural identity.