Folklore functions as a counter discourse by providing alternative narratives that challenge dominant ideologies, official histories, social hierarchies, and institutional power. Unlike written literature, which has often been controlled by ruling elites, folklore emerges from the lived experiences of ordinary people and reflects their aspirations, grievances, resistance, and cultural identity. It gives voice to marginalized communities, including peasants, women, tribal groups, lower castes, and other oppressed sections of society. Through oral traditions such as folk tales, songs, ballads, myths, proverbs, riddles, legends, and performances, folklore questions established norms and presents perspectives that are frequently absent from mainstream historical and literary records. One of the primary ways folklore operates as a counter discourse is by preserving people's history. Official histories generally celebrate kings, conquerors, and political elites, whereas folklore records the struggles and achievements of common people. Folk ballads about local heroes, village leaders, and freedom fighters often portray resistance against oppression. These narratives preserve memories of social injustice and collective resistance