Assam's Vibrant Folk Art Forms: A Window to the State's Rich Cultural Heritage

Since ancient times, Assamese people have been skilled artisans, marked by the traditional crafts of Assam. Although Assam is primarily recognised for its fine silks and goods produced from bamboo and cane, it also produces a number of other crafts. The cultural heritage of Assam is renowned for the state’s unique handicrafts and artistic expressions. Assamese folk art forms are an integral part of the state's rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the most notable ones: 

Traditional Dance Forms 

1. Bihu Dance of Assam: A traditional dance form performed during the Bihu festival, characterised by energetic movements and rhythmic steps.

2. Bagurumba dance of Bodo community: A folk dance performed by the Bodo community, known for its swift movements and colourful costumes.

3. Bhortal Dance of Ahoms: A traditional dance form performed by the Ahom community, characterised by intricate footwork and hand gestures.

4. Jhumur of tea growers: The people who grow tea in the state of Assam perform this dance. Locally, this dance is known as "Cha Baganor Jhumur Nach," or "dance of the tea gardens."

5. Husori of Assam: The Husori dance is done during Bohag Bihu celebrations. To convey the joy connected to this celebration, the group of dancers travels from one home to another.

There, are also many other folk dances that reflect Assam’s vast and diverse traditions, history, and culture. 

Music and Instruments 

1. Bihu Geet: Traditional folk songs sung during the Bihu festival, often accompanied by traditional instruments of Assam like the dhol, pepa, and gogona.

2. Dotara: A traditional stringed instrument played during folk songs and dances.

3. Pepa: A traditional instrument of Assam made from a buffalo horn, played during Bihu celebrations. 

Theatre and Puppetry 

1. Ankiya Nat: A traditional form of theatre that combines music, dance, and drama to tell mythological stories.

2. Putala Nach: A traditional puppet show that uses handmade puppets to narrate stories and myths.

Assam’s traditional dance and music reflects the myriad ways of life embedded in the state’s culture. 

Crafts and Artisans 

·  Handloom Weaving: A traditional craft that involves weaving intricate designs and patterns on cloth using handlooms. Assamese weaving techniques are distinctive and have been handed down through the years. Every Assamese region has its own unique pattern and style contributing to the cultural heritage of Assam. Assamese handloom weaving is sustainable and environmentally friendly since it frequently uses natural dyes and eco-friendly materials.

·  Wood Carving: A traditional craft that involves carving intricate designs and patterns on wood. Assam has always maintained its position as one of the nation's most forested states, and the diverse range of wood and timber that is accessible here has influenced the people's economy and culture.

· 3.  Mask Making: A traditional craft that involves creating colourful masks used in Assam’s traditional dances and theatre performances. Assamese culture is based on tribal art and folk elements; hence masks have become a significant part of the people's cultural activities. These historic masks are now making their way into contemporary drawing rooms as wall hangings and decorative pieces, giving individuals who have been manufacturing them a chance to earn a livelihood themselves.

· Cane and Bamboo: In Assam, bamboo and cane continue to be integral aspects of daily life. Since cane and bamboo are grown in large quantities here, they make up the majority of the household items seen in Assamese households. The state's most prestigious bamboo product is still the Jappi, a traditional sunshade.

·  Metal Crafts: The two metals that Assamese artisans have employed the most frequently are brass and bell-metal. For generations, the Xorai and Bota have been used to greet distinguished guests with betel nut and paan. The whole population of Hajo and Sarthebari, two townships close to Guwahati, work as bell-metal and brass craftsman.

· Terracotta: Pottery was produced by two groups of people: the Hiras and the Kumars. The terracotta artisans of Asarikandi in the Dhubri district, however, have made a name for themselves and have a distinct place in the cultural heritage of Assam. In India, Asarikandi has become a well-known ethnic art brand because to its unique style. Another well-known craft from Asarikandi is sola pith, which is crafted from the soft core of a particular type of reed.

· Traditional Painting: Assamese art has a long history that dates back several centuries. Brightly coloured murals of numerous historical and mythological events and stories can still be found throughout Ahom palaces, satras, naam-ghar, and other structures. Assamese painters of the subsequent era actually adopted the motifs and designs seen in Chitra-Bhagavata as their own, and they are still used today. 

These folk-art forms are an integral part of Assamese culture and continue to play a significant role in the state's cultural heritage. In conclusion, the rich cultural heritage of Assam is reflected in its diverse folk art forms, which are an integral part of the state's identity. From Assam’s traditional dance and music to theatre, puppetry, and visual arts, the state's folk-art forms are a testament to the state's vibrant cultural diversity. These art forms not only preserve the cultural heritage of Assam but also promote cultural diversity, provide a sense of identity, and foster community engagement. As we strive to preserve and promote Assam's folk-art forms, we must also recognise the importance of supporting the artists and communities that keep these traditions alive. By doing so, we can ensure the continued vitality of Assam's folk-art forms and their contribution to the state's rich cultural landscape.

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