Welcome to our blog, where we are delighted to share with you Assamese culture, cultural heritage of Assam.
Assam is a northeastern state of India with a rich and vibrant culture. The state is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs and traditions, it’s proudly we Assamese say that we have own everything. Assamese culture is influenced by a variety of factors, including its geography, history, religion and the beauty of it’s nature.
History of Assam
Assam has a long and rich history dating back to over 3,000 years. The region has been ruled by a variety of dynasties over the centuries, including the Ahom Dynasty, which ruled Assam for nearly 600 years. The Ahom kings made substantial contributions to Assamese culture, language, art, and administration.
In 19th century, Assam became a part of the British Empire. During the British period, Assam saw a number of social and religious reforms, as well as the development of infrastructure and education.
Read: Assam Best Picnic spots
Why British Empire entry into Assam? Who was the last king of axom?
Assamese is a rich in every aspect of nature including mineral wealth. The last axom king was Purandar Singha.
Assam gained independence from British rule in 1947. Since independence, the state has made significant progress in various fields, including education, healthcare, and economic development.
In 1972 Sarat Chandra Sinha came to power after Congress secured absolute majority. In 1974 the capital was finally shifted to Dispur in Guwahati from Shillong.
Assamese Culture
“Assam is the land of scenic beauty and divine nature.”
“Assam is a land of rich culture and heritage, where people from different religions, castes, and tribes live together in harmony. The Assamese people are known for their warm hospitality, their love of nature, and their rich tradition of folk arts and crafts
Assamese culture is a unique blend of different influences, including Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, and animism. The Assamese people are known for their warm hospitality and their love of music, dance and dress.
Read: আৱেগেৰে ভৰপূৰ এক কাব্যিক প্ৰতিফলন -NEW ASSAMESE POEM BY UNIQUE THINGS
Is there any state festival of Assam?
Yes, The national festival of Assam is Bihu. The bihu is the most important aspects of Assamese culture.
Bihu is a harvest festival that is celebrated three times a year: these are- Rongali Bihu in spring, Bohag Bihu in summer, and Kongali Bihu in autumn.
Rongali Bihu:
Rongali Bihu or Magh bihu is the most popular Bihu festival and is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur. It’s celebrate for 7 days. During Rongali Bihu, people wear traditional Assamese attire, dance to Bihu music, and eat delicious food.
Bohag Bihu:
The Magh Bihu or Bhogali bihu marks the end of the harvesting season. The eve of the Magh Bihu is called the Uruka.
Read :Our Assamese Poetry post
Kati Bihu:
Kati Bihu is also known as Kongali (Poor) to symbolize an empty granary and less availability of food during that time of the year.. The festival, Kati Bihu is an observation of service, penance, and hope for a better future.
Are there any other festivals that celebrate Assamese people?
Yes, theree are many festivals including Baishagu, Eid, Diwali, Durga puja, Ali-Ai-Ligang, Baikho, Ambubashi Mela and Jonbill Mela and so on.
Read: Hindi Poem
Are there any state languages in Assam?
Yes, there are 2 state languages in Assamese namely Assamese and Bangla. There are 22 languages are use in official work in Assam.
For know about languages- read
Is there any state animal of Assam?
yes, The state animal of Assam is the one-horned Rhino, Rhinoceros unicornis)
Assamese Local customs and Traditions:
Mekhela Chadir and Dhoti Kurta: The traditional attire of Assam is known as the Mekhela Chador for women and the Dhoti Kurta for men.
The Mekhela Chador is typically made of silk or cotton and is often decorated with intricate embroidery.
The Mekhela Chador is a two-piece garment consisting of a long skirt and a shawl. And the The Dhoti Kurta is a three-piece garment consisting of a dhoti, a kurta, and a vest.
Both are Worn by people of all ages and social classes in Assam
Gamosa:
The gamocha (গামোচা) literally means a towel and it’s an integral part of Assamese culture and is used for a variety of purposes, including covering the head, wiping the face, and offering to guests.
Jaapi:
The jaapi is a traditional Assamese hat made of bamboo and thatch. The jaapi is worn by people of all ages and social classes in Assam and is used to protect the head from the sun and rain. And also use for offering to guests.
Tamul-paan:
Guapan or Tamul-paan is a betel leaf that is filled with Areca nut aka supari lime paste, and spices. Tamul-paan is offered to guests as a sign of devotion, respect and friendship.
Naamghar:
A namghar is a Vaishnavite community hall where people come together to sing hymns and listen to religious discourses. Namghars are an important part of Assamese culture and play a significant role in the religious and social lives of the Assamese people.
Bhaona:
The festival Bhaona is a traditional Assamese form of theater that combines elements of dance, music, and drama. Bhaona plays are typically based on religious stories and are performed during festivals and other special occasions.
Masjid and Eid:
A masjid is a Muslim mosque. Masjids are used for prayer and other religious activities. Muslims in Assam attend masjids for daily prayers, Eid prayers, and other special occasions. In the eid we Assamese people enjoy it together without compare religion.
Girja and Christmas:
A girja is a Christian church. Girjas are used for prayer and other religious activities. Christians in Assam attend girjas for weekly services, Christmas services, and other special occasions. In Christmas, we Assamese together celebrate it, enjoy the whole day each year.
At the end, I recommend you book about Assam, before visit Assam you must read it, then the journey will more amazing- “A History Of Assam“
Promoting Local Customs and Traditions:
- Encouraging people to participate in traditional festivals and celebrations.
- Documenting and archiving local customs and traditions.
- Supporting local artisans and craftsmen who produce traditional handicrafts and clothing.
Conclusion:
As our profound journey through Assamese cultural heritage, including the celebration of Bihu, it is evident that this remarkable tapestry is not just a relic of the past but a living, breathing testament to the resilience, creativity, and diversity of the Assamese people.
With its rich history, elegant attire, exuberant festivals, and enduring customs, Assam’s cultural heritage remains a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come. In its myriad colors and traditions, we find not only the story of Assam but a glimpse into the enchanting mosaic of India’s cultural tapestry.
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