Dhanda with sanda
Sanda and dhanda have of late become the means of livelihood for some people belonging to some fake organizations in Upper Assam in particular, disgracing us as a whole. Unfortunately, the AASU, the supreme so-called apolitical secular organization, is also not above suspicion in this regard. The Chief Minister's latest directive to do away with this 'sanda and dhanda' culture has no doubt put these organizations on the back foot, especially with the advent of Rongali Bihu. The Government has made a welcome move by offering financial aid of Rs 1.5 lakh each to Bihutolis which have been in existence for 10 years or longer. This move should encourage some small-time local artistes to perform and earn some remuneration, which was in the past dominated only by a few big guns. With the change of the socio-political situation in Assam, we, the Axomiyas, cannot have the luxury of celebrating Bihu all throughout the month of Bohag. Our so-called heart throb Zubeen Garg's difference of opinion in this regard is well understood by us because he has certain business compulsions. Zubeen should note that now in Assam we hardly see any self-employed youths working as barbers, plumbers, masons etc., as most of our youths run after white collar jobs. Of late, it is seen that Zubeen has started poking his nose into issues which are not his domain, unlike our dear Papon who has enchanted the nation with his talent as a singer and musician. Gone are the days of month-long Bihu celebration with sanda and dhanda culture!
Lanu Dutt Chowdhury,
Guwahati.