Journey from Joymoti to DSE

Friday 4 October 2013

Exploring the Culture of Assam

Assamese culture is a conglomeration of various ethnicities and cultural groups. Srimanta Shankardeva led the Vaishnava Movement which contributed to a massive cultural change in the state, during the 15th century. The traditions and daily life in Assam are heavily influenced by events from the British Era. The culture in Assam is highly hybrid and some of its sub systems are still developing.

The Assamese people hold high respect towards betel leaves, areca nut and traditional silk garments. Assamese and Bodo are the two main languages spoken in the state, whereas Bengali is spoken in some parts of the state. The modern dialects spoken are Goalpariya and Kamrupi. Assamese literature is one of the richest in India.

Bodo is another language in Assam, spoken since ancient times. The language is largely spoken in lower Assam. Nepali is also spoken by a large number of people throughout the state and is taught in many schools. Sylheti is a dialect of Bengali which is spoken in the districts of Silchar, Barpeta and Goalpara.

Bihu is the biggest festival celebrated in the state. It marks significant points of a cultivator’s life and the main attraction is the traditional Bihu dance also known as the Rongali Bihu. The festival is generally celebrated as a series of three festivals. The other festivals celebrated in the state are Kherai, Garja, Porag, Sokk-erroi, Karbi Youth festival, Hacha-Kekan.

The performing arts in Assam include the Ankiya Nat, Banjar Dance, Bordoicikhla dance, Bagrumba, Bohag Bihu and many more. Assam silk is famous throughout India and the craftsmen in Assam are skilled and make a wide range of local handicrafts.