Timeless Assam: A Journey Through Its Heritage

Timeless Assam: A Journey Through Its Heritage

By

Kishore Boruah

                  Assam’s tribal culture reflects unity in diversity. The festivals of different tribes show their strong connection to nature, farming, and spirituality. By preserving these traditions, Assam keeps its rich heritage alive and promotes mutual respect and harmony among its people.

                   This article on Assam's cultural heritage explains various festivals, the food, art and crafts, dance, and music of different tribes. I have tried to cover all the important details. Please read it and let me know if there are any mistakes or areas to improve.

Cultural Heritage of Assam

Introduction

            Cultural heritage is the soul of a community, representing its traditions, beliefs, and way of life. Assam, a picturesque state in Northeast India, boasts a vibrant cultural heritage that intertwines nature, spirituality, and celebration. Known as the "Land of the Red River and Blue Hills," Assam’s traditions reflect its agrarian roots, spiritual values, and ethnic diversity. Festivals like Bihu, religious celebrations such as Durga Puja, and unique art forms such as Sattriya dance showcase Assam’s identity. This article explores the cultural wealth of Assam and its significance.

Description

1. Festivals as Pillars of Assamese Culture

             Assam is a land of diverse cultures, enriched by its many tribes and communities. The state is home to over 20 major tribes, each with its distinct traditions, festivals, language, and lifestyle. The major festivals celebrated in Assam are Bihu, Baishagu, Ali-Ai-Ligang, Baikho, Rongker, Rajini Gabra Harni Gabra, Bohaggiyo Bishu, Ambubashi Mela and Jonbill Mela and so on. The people of Assam also celebrate Holi, Durga Puja, Diwali, Swaraswati Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja, Idd, Muharram, Me-Dam-Me-Phi, the birth and death anniversaries of Vaishnava Saints Srimanta Sankardev and Madhabdev.

1) Bihu

    Assamese culture is incomplete without its festivals. Bihu, celebrated thrice annually, is the heartbeat of Assam.

A) Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu):

         Celebrated in April, this marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring (Basanta season). Villages come alive with music, dance, and feasts. The colorful Bihu dance performed in traditional attire spreads joy.

B) Magh Bihu (Bhogali Bihu): 

        Held in January, this festival focuses on feasting and community bonding. People light bonfires (মেজি) and prepare dishes like pitha (পিঠা) and laru (লাড়ু).

C) Kati Bihu (Kongali Bihu):

      Observed in October, it is quieter and spiritual, with prayers for a good harvest. Small earthen lamps are lit in fields and households.

2) Me-Dum-Me-Phi

       The most important Ahom festival which deserves mention is the Me-Dum-Me-Phi, i.e., the ancestor worship festival which is observed by the whole Ahom community. This is performed annually on the 31st of January and helps to develop social contacts and community feelings among the Ahoms. Colourful processions with devotees in traditional finery are also taken out on the occasion. It is believed that if Me-Dum-Me-Fi is not celebrated in the customary way, the deities will be displeased and consequently there will be crisis in the State like political rivalry and infighting, increased activities of militancy, natural upheavals like floods and earthquakes resulting in loss of human lives and property. Therefore, performance of Me-Dum-Me-Fi is a must in the interest of overall well-being of the people and the society.

3) Durga Puja

     Durga Puja, celebrated with grandeur in urban and rural areas alike. The streets come alive with vibrant decorations, cultural performances, and stalls offering food and crafts. 

4) Ambubachi Mela

      Ambubachi Mela is a unique spiritual event at the Kamakhya Temple, attracts devotees and tourists from across the globe. Festivals like Ali Ai Ligang of the Mishing tribe and Rongker of the Karbi community reflect Assam's ethnic diversity.

5) Ali Ai Ligang (Mising)

       This is a harvest festival celebrated in February to mark the beginning of seed-sowing. The festival features traditional dances like the Gumrag and feasts with local delicacies such as apong (rice beer) and pork dishes.

6) Rongker (Karbi)

        Rongker is a community festival observed to appease deities and ensure peace and prosperity. It involves rituals, sacrifices, and community feasting.

7) Bushu Dima (Dimasa)

       Bushu Dima is a harvest festival celebrated in January. It involves traditional dances, music, and feasts. The Dimasas express gratitude to their ancestors and pray for a prosperous harvest.

8) Boishagu (Deori)

       This spring festival involves offering prayers to their deities for blessings. People perform dances like the Husori, and music plays an essential part in the celebrations.

9) Jonbeel Mela (Tiwa)

       This unique festival is held in January and features a barter system where people exchange goods without using money. Jonbeel Mela promotes harmony among different tribes. It also includes rituals, community feasts, and traditional dances.

10) Baishagu (Bodo)

        This festival is celebrated in Assam with much pomp and enthusiasm. This festival is commonly celebrated by the tribe of 'Boro Kacharis' of Assam and it is the famous festival of the Boros. Famous for its myriad colours and merriment, 'Baishagu' is generally celebrated by the Bodo Kacharis during mid April. It is the most cherished festival of the Bodo tribe. The Bodos also celebrate it as a springtime festival at the advent of the new year. In this festival of Baishagu many traditional musical instruments are used. Such music instruments are: Khawbang, Jotha, Gogona, Siphung, Kham etc.

2. Traditional Arts and Crafts

               Assam is renowned for its traditional arts and crafts. The mekhela chador, a two-piece garment worn by women, is intricately handwoven on looms. The gamocha, a white and red hand towel, symbolizes respect and is exchanged during Bihu. Assam is also famous for its bamboo and cane products, pottery, and bell metal crafts. The craft of making Assamese silk, especially the golden Muga silk, is a proud tradition that has flourished for centuries.

A) Cane And Bamboo

      Cane and bamboo have remained inseparable parts of life in Assam. Grown in abundance here and hence most of the household articles in the homes of Assamese are made of cane and bamboo.

      The Jaapi, the traditional sunshade continues to be the most prestigious of bamboo items of the state, and visitors are welcomed with a jaapi.

B) Metal Crafts

         Bell-metal and brass have been the most commonly used metals for the Assamese artisan. Traditional utensils and fancy articles designed by these artisans are found in every Assamese household.

         The Xorai and bota have in use for centuries, to offer betel-nut and paan while welcoming distinguished guests.

         The entire population of two townships near Guwahati - Hajo and Sarthebari, are engaged in producing traditional bell-metal and brass articles. They have also used their innovative skills to design modern day articles to compete with the changing times.

C) Wood Craft

          Assam has always remained one of the most forest-covered states of the country, and the variety of wood and timber available here have formed a part of the people's culture and ecomony.

          An Assamese can identify the timber by touching it even in darkness, and can produce a series of items from it. While decorative panels in the royal Ahom palaces of the past and the 600-years old satras or Vaishnative monasteries are intricately carved on wood, a special class of people who excelled in wood carving came to be known as Khanikar, a surname proudly passed down from generation to generation.

           The various articles in a satra and naam-ghar(place of worship) are stiff cut on wood, depicting the guru asana (pedestal of the lords), apart from various kinds of birds and animals figuring in mythology.

D) Masks

       With tribal art and folk elements form the base of Assamese culture, masks have found an important place in the cultural activities of the people. Masks have been widely used in folk theatres and bhaonas with the materials ranging from terracotta to pith to metal, bamboo and wood.

3. Music and Dance

              Assamese music and dance forms express the community's spirit. The Bihu dance, performed to the beats of the dhol and the tunes of the pepa, is energetic and captivating. The Sattriya dance, a classical dance form, was developed by Srimanta Sankardeva, a revered saint and cultural icon. It conveys spiritual teachings through graceful movements. Folk songs like Borgeet and tribal tunes like Zikir also enrich Assamese culture.

Folk Music of Assam

          The folk music of Assam reflects the region's social life, natural beauty, and deep spiritual connection.

Characteristics of Assamese Folk Music

1. Simple and Soulful: Assamese folk music is known for its simplicity, melodious nature, and emotional depth.

2. Nature-Centric: Many songs are inspired by the lush green landscapes, rivers, and wildlife of Assam, emphasizing the bond between humans and nature.

3. Cultural Diversity: With numerous ethnic groups residing in Assam, the folk music varies across communities, offering a wide range of styles and themes.

Major Folk Music Traditions

1) Borgeet: A Classical Treasure of Assam

              Borgeet, meaning "Grand Song," is a form of devotional music rooted in Assamese culture. Composed by the 15th-century saint-scholar Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Shree shree Madhavdeva, these songs are an integral part of the Neo-Vaishnavite movement in Assam.

              Borgeet is not just music; it is a form of meditation and a means of worship, fostering a connection with the divine. It promotes spiritual reflection and communal harmony.

Key Features of Borgeet

              Borgeet continues to be a cornerstone of Assamese culture, performed in religious and cultural gatherings, preserving the teachings of the Bhakti movement and enriching the spiritual fabric of the region.

              These songs glorify Lord Krishna and express deep devotion, love, and spiritual yearning.The lyrics often depict episodes from the Bhagavata Purana.

             Borgeets are written in Brajavali, a blend of Assamese and Braj language, designed to connect with the masses.

2) Bihu Songs:

              Associated with the Bihu festival, these are perhaps the most popular folk songs of Assam. They celebrate life, love, and the harvest season. Accompanied by traditional instruments like the dhol, pepa (buffalo horn pipe), and gogona (bamboo clapper).

3. Zikir and Zari:

              Introduced by the Sufi saint Ajan Fakir, these songs reflect Islamic mysticism and communal harmony. Zikir songs are spiritual and philosophical, while Zari songs are sung during mourning rituals.

4. Ojapali:

              A unique combination of music, dance, and narration. Often linked to the epic Mahabharata and mythological tales. The oza (lead singer) is supported by palis (chorus singers).

5. Tokari Geet:

             Sung with the accompaniment of the tokari, a string instrument. Focuses on moral and spiritual themes, often narrating stories from Assamese folklore.

6. Deh Bisaror Geet:

              Also known as Songs of the Soul's Journey. Reflect philosophical and spiritual inquiries, often linked to Assamese Vaishnavism.

Instruments in Assamese Folk Music

                Assamese folk music is enriched by traditional instruments like:

Dhol: A two-sided drum used extensively in Bihu.

Pepa: A wind instrument made from buffalo horn.

Taal: Cymbals that add rhythm.

Bahi: A bamboo flute.

Significance

                Assamese folk music is more than entertainment—it is a medium of storytelling, a reflection of societal values, and a way to preserve traditions. It fosters a sense of community and cultural pride among the people of Assam.

Folk dance

Bihu: A colorful dance performed during Bihu festivals. 

Jumur Nach: A dance performed by tea community .

Santhar Dance: A pre-Sankarite era dance performed during Manasha Puja. The dance is known for its vigorous rhythm and the dancers often go into a trance. 

Ojhapali: A dance that is accompanied by the musical instruments Dhol and Khanjani. 

Deodhani Nritya: A dance performed by young unmarried girls dedicated to Goddess Manasha. 

4. Cuisine of Assam

            Food is an essential part of Assamese heritage. Its cuisine is simple yet flavorful, often cooked with minimal spices to preserve the natural taste of ingredients. Popular dishes include:

Fish: A staple of Assamese cuisine, fish is prepared in many ways, including fried, roasted, or cooked with spices and herbs. Fish curries, fish fry, and fish tarts are common dishes. 

Tenga (sour fish curry): A refreshing dish made with fish and tamarind or tomatoes.

Duck: Duck meat is a key part of Assamese cuisine, and is often featured in curries for special occasions. 

Aloo Pitika: A simple and comforting dish of mashed potatoes, onions, coriander, mustard oil, and salt. 

Doi Chira: A breakfast favorite, traditionally served in a bell metal container called a "Baan Bati". 

Pitha: Rice cakes filled with sesame seeds and jaggery or coconut, which can be fried, steamed, or roasted. 

Baanhgajor Lagot Kukura: A refreshing dish of chicken and bamboo that's light and easy to digest. 

Til Gahori: A popular pork dish with a light sour taste, made with ginger garlic, chili, salt, and black sesame seeds.

Khar: A unique alkaline dish made with banana peel and black gram. In assam , there is a famous dialogue --- " Khar khua asomiya."

The use of ingredients like bamboo shoots, mustard oil, and local herbs gives Assamese food its distinct identity.

Conclusion

Assam's cultural heritage is a treasure trove of festivals, art, music, and traditions. It binds the people of the state together and gives them a strong sense of identity. Festivals like Bihu and Durga Puja bring communities closer, while traditional crafts and cuisine preserve their roots. Protecting and celebrating this heritage is essen

tial for future generations to understand and cherish their history. Assam’s culture is not just a reflection of its past but a vibrant expression of life and unity in diversity.

Thank you

Kishore Boruah