Can Axam Xahitya Xabha regain its lost dignity?

Satyabrat Borah

(satyabratborah12@gmail.com)

The Axam Xahitya Xabha (AXX), established in 1917, has long been regarded as Assam’s foremost cultural and literary institution, playing a pivotal role in preserving and promoting the Assamese language, literature, and cultural heritage. For over a century, it has been a symbol of pride and unity for the Assamese, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern among intellectuals, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public about whether the Xabha is losing its dignity and relevance in contemporary times. This concern stems from various factors, including internal conflicts, political interference, a perceived decline in literary standards, and a failure to adapt to the changing socio-cultural landscape of Assam.

One of the primary reasons for the perceived decline in the dignity of the Axam Xahitya Xabha is the increasing politicization of the institution. Historically, the Xabha has maintained a non-political stance, focusing solely on literary and cultural matters. However, in recent years, there have been allegations of political interference in the functioning of the Xabha. Political parties and leaders have been accused of using the Xabha as a platform to further their agendas, thereby compromising its integrity. This politicization has led to a loss of trust among the people, who view the Xabha as a sacred institution that should remain above partisan politics. The involvement of politicians in the Xabha’s elections and decision-making processes has further eroded its credibility, raising questions about its autonomy and impartiality.

Another factor contributing to the decline in the Xabha’s dignity is the internal conflicts and factionalism within the organization. Over the years, there have been reports of infighting among members, with disputes over leadership positions and ideological differences taking centre stage. These conflicts have often played out in public, tarnishing the Xabha’s image and diverting attention from its core mission. Instead of focusing on literary and cultural activities, the Xabha has become embroiled in controversies, leading to a sense of disillusionment among its members and supporters. The lack of unity and cohesion within the organization has weakened its ability to effectively carry out its objectives, further diminishing its stature.

The perceived decline in literary standards is another issue that has raised concerns about the Xabha’s relevance in contemporary times. The Xabha was once known for its high literary standards and its ability to attract some of the finest writers, poets, and scholars in Assam. However, in recent years, there has been criticism that the quality of literary works and discussions at the Xabha’s events has declined. Some argue that the Xabha has become more focused on quantity rather than quality, with an emphasis on organizing large-scale events rather than nurturing literary talent. This shift in focus has led to a dilution of the Xabha’s intellectual rigour, making it less appealing to serious writers and scholars.

Moreover, the Xabha’s failure to adapt to the changing socio-cultural landscape of Assam has also contributed to its perceived decline. Assam is a diverse state with multiple ethnic groups, each with its language, culture, and traditions. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for the recognition and promotion of these indigenous languages and cultures. However, the Xabha has been criticized for not doing enough to address these demands. While it has traditionally focused on the Assamese language and culture, there is a need for the Xabha to adopt a more inclusive approach, embracing the linguistic and cultural diversity of the state. By failing to do so, the Xabha risks alienating a significant portion of the population and losing its relevance in a rapidly changing society.

The rise of digital technology and social media has also posed challenges to the Xabha’s traditional mode of functioning. In the past, the Xabha’s annual conferences and literary events were major cultural milestones, attracting large audiences and generating widespread interest. However, with the advent of digital platforms, people now have access to a wealth of literary and cultural content at their fingertips. This has led to a decline in the popularity of traditional literary events, as younger generations increasingly turn to online platforms for their cultural consumption. The Xabha has been slow to adapt to this digital shift, and its efforts to engage with a younger, tech-savvy audience have been limited. This has further contributed to the perception that the Xabha is losing its relevance in the digital age.

Despite these challenges, it is important to acknowledge that the Axam Xahitya Xabha still holds a special place in the hearts of the Assamese people. Its contributions to the preservation and promotion of the Assamese language and culture are undeniable, and it continues to play a vital role in shaping the cultural identity of Assam. However, for the Xabha to regain its lost dignity and relevance, it must address the issues that have led to its decline. This requires a renewed commitment to its core mission, free from political interference and internal conflicts. The Xabha must also strive to uphold high literary standards and embrace the linguistic and cultural diversity of Assam. Additionally, it must adapt to the changing times by leveraging digital technology to reach a wider audience and engage with younger generations.

While the Axam Xahitya Xabha is facing challenges that have led to concerns about its dignity and relevance, it is not too late for the institution to reclaim its former glory. By addressing the issues of politicization, internal conflicts, declining literary standards, and a lack of inclusivity, the Xabha can once again become a beacon of cultural and literary excellence in Assam. It must also embrace the opportunities presented by digital technology to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. The Axam Xahitya Xabha has a rich legacy and a proud history, and with the right reforms and a renewed sense of purpose, it can continue to play a vital role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Assam for generations to come.