Guwahati: Community Fishing Festival at Deepor Beel from January 5

Staff Reporter

Guwahati: The tranquil waters of Deepor Beel, a beautiful site and a vital wetland in Assam, are all set to come alive on January 5, the first Sunday of the year, as the region gears up for its much-anticipated annual ritual of community fishing. This cherished tradition, practised for generations, holds profound cultural and economic significance for the fishermen families residing in the surrounding villages.

Around 800 fishermen families from villages such as Keot Para, Medhi Para, Hira Para, Hatua Para, Nowa Para, Matia, Notun Basti, and Borbori, all under the Greater Azara area, do actively participate in this age-old custom, showcasing their inherited expertise in fishing.

A committee named Deepor Beel Pachpara Samabai Samity was formed for the welfare of this community. During the monsoon season, the Samity releases fingerlings into the beel, helping to sustain the aquatic ecosystem and secure a rich yield for the community. This sustainable practice not only supports biodiversity but also ensures the livelihoods of those dependent on the beel’s resources.

On the designated day, locals and visitors alike crowd the beel from the early hours of the morning to witness the vibrant fishing activities and to relish the fresh catch, renowned for its delectable taste. In a unique tradition, the fish caught during the festival are not sold by weight (kilograms) but in “aska”—a traditional local measurement. This custom preserves the cultural essence of the festival, adding to its distinctiveness.

For the fishermen families, this day is more than just an economic activity; it symbolizes unity, heritage, and celebration. Preparations are already in full swing as the villagers gear up for the annual ritual, which also serves as an opportunity to strengthen community bonds and welcome visitors to experience their rich traditions.  

Also Read: Assam: Deepor Beel's Ecosystem at Risk Due to Waste Dumping at Belortol

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