PROJECT REPORT ON ASSAM

SUBMITTED FOR THE AWARD OF THE DEGREE OF

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE OF

PUNJAB TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY

SUBMITTED TO:

MS. SUKHPAL Kaur

(PRINCIPAL OF G.N.I.D.T)

SUBMITTED BY:

RAJWANT KAUR

B.Sc.-FT (6th Sem)

ROLL NO.820045016

GURU NANAK INSTITUTE OF DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY

AFFILIATED TO

PUNJAB TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY JALANDHAR

SUBMITTED TO:

MS. SUKHPAL KAUR

(PRINCIPAL OF G.N.I.D.T)

SUBMITTED BY:

RAJWANT KAUR

B.Sc.-FT (6th Sem)

ROLL NO.820045016

CONTENTS

1. Map Of Assam

2. History of Assam

3. Geographical Profile of Assam

4. Climate of Assam

5. Best Places of Assam

6. Cuisine of Assam

7. Costume of Assam

8. Art and Craft Tourism

9. Monuments of Assam

10. Festivals of Assam

11. Jewellery in Assam

12. Sports of Assam

13. Politics of Assam

14. Dresses of Assam

15. Inspirational Dresses

16. Conclusion

17. Bibliography

PREFACE

This book explains the country Assam fully. I tried my best to together each and

every information. Assam stands for its ancient glory and modern endeavour.

Assam is a country that is part of India. Assam is the country that claims rich

cultured, literature, fashion an extraordinary diversity of landscapes etc. This is an

attempt to provide useful information about England and I hope this book would be

useful.

Rajwant Kaur

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Many people supported me in writing the thesis on the Assam. I was very

pleased and little amazed to find that every person whom I asked to help

agreed to do so despite the fact that they all were busy in their works. I

would like to thank Madam Mrs. Sukhpal Kaur (Director of G.N.I.D.T) who

gave me an opportunity to fulfill a long held ambition by Commissioning this

book, Mrs. Henna Gupta who helped me in stitching the inspirational dress

and I am also thankful to my parents who encouraged me to become involved

in fashion design education. I am also thankful to my parents who

encouraged me to become involved in fashion design education. I am also

grateful to the Almighty for His blessings. This thesis has had a significant

impact on my education and career.

History of Assam

The early history of Assam is lost in the mists of antiquity, though there are several

references to the in the Mahabharata, the Puranas, and the Tantras. In these sacred

scriptures the area was known as Kamrupa; it encompassed the Brahmaputra valley,

Bhutan, Cooch Behar (West Bengal), and the Rangpur region (now in Bangladesh).

The legendary king Narakasura, whose son Bhagadatta fought valiantly in the

Mahabharata war, ruled Kamrupa from his capital at Pragjyotishpura (modern

Guwahati). The site has a famous temple dedicated to the Tantric goddess Kamakhya.

Sri Krishna frequently appears in the legends and mythology of Assam. It was Krishna

who fought against king Bhismaka of Kundil (now Sadia) in his bid to marry

Bhismaka's daughter Rukmini. King Banasura of Sonitpur (now Tezpur) fought

against Sri Krishna, when Banasura's daughter Usha secretly entered into wedlock with

Aniruddha, Krishna’s grandson.

The mighty Brahmaputra-

Assam's lifeline

The famous

Kamakhya temple

Ruins of Banasur's capital Sonitpur (modern Tezpur)

In 640 AD, the famous Chinese pilgrim-scholar Hiuen-Tsang, reported that he had

attended the court of king Bhaskar Barman. Several stone and copper inscriptions

dating from the7th to the 12th centuries indicate a succession of Hindu dynasties.

The Salasthambha dynasty was the next to rule Assam. The first to rule was a chieftain

called Salastambha. Shri Harshadeva (725 - 750 AD) proved to be an excellent ruler.

The last king of this dynasty, Tyaga Singha (970 - 990 AD), was succeeded by

Brahmapala (990 - 1010 AD), who founded a new dynasty- that of the Palas. Jayapala

(1120 - 1138 AD) was the last ruler of this dynasty.

Bishwa Singha (1515 - 1540 AD) laid the foundation of the Koch dominion in the early

part of the 16th century and established his capital in Cooch-Bihar (modern W.Bengal).

He was succeeded by his son Malladeva who assumed the name of Naranarayana. His

brother Sukladhvaj, who became the commander-in-chief, was known as 'Chilarai' or

'Hawk King' due to his ability to attack the enemy swiftly like a Chila (hawk/ Kite).

Naranarayan's rule was the most glorious period of Koch kingdom. He defeated the

Ahoms in 1562 AD, annexed the kingdoms of Kachar, Manipur, Tripura, Jayantia and

Srihatta (modern Sylhet in Bangladesh),thus extending the boundaries of his domains.

Chilarai also fought the Nawab of Gour, but succumbed to an attack of smallpox.

Naranarayan died in 1584 AD after a reign of nearly fifty years (1540 - 1584 AD). It was

during his reign that the Assamese literature and culture flourished. After his the kingdom

weakened steadily and until 1615 AD when it was annexed to the Mughal Empire.

Architecture of the Ahoms

Rang Ghar in Sibsagar -

Assam's ancient capital

The 13th century saw the rise of the Kacharis, one of the ancient races of Assam. The

most famous and powerful kings of the Kachari Kingdom were Jashanarayan,

Pratapnarayan, Jamradwaj and Govindchandra. The Kacharis claim descent from

Ghatotkacha, the son of Bhima (the second Pandava). Towards the end of the 15th

century the Kacharis were forced to surrender their capital Hidimbapur (now Dimapur,

in Nagaland) and the adjoining areas adjoining it to the Ahoms.

The Jaintias was a matriarchal race which had established their kingdom in and around

Jayantia hills. Dhanamanik and Jashamanik were the powerful kings of the Jayantia

Kingdom. They forged matrimonial relations with the Ahoms and allied with them during

the Mughal invasion. Bijaynarayan was the last Jayantia ruler after whom the kingdom

passed into the hands of the British along with the Ahom kingdom.

The 13th century witnessed the advent of the Ahoms, led by their first king Sukafa who

was the prince of Monlung (Upper Burma, modern Myanmar). In 1228 AD the prince

together with a band of followers entered the boundaries of Assam through the Naga

Kingdom. He set up his capital at Charaideo in 1253 AD. After Sukafa died in 1268 AD,

his son Suseupha (1268 - 1281 AD) became king and gradually extended the boundaries

of the Ahom kingdom. In 1397 AD Sudangpha (1397 - 1407 AD) was crowned as king.

His accession marks the first stage in the growth of Brahmanical influence among the

Ahoms.During this period there was a skirmish between Ahoms and Tipams, but it

ended peacefully. during his reign but was later on peacefully concluded.

A specimen of Assam's

ancient sculpture

   

     

It would be interesting to note that during the latter half of the 16th century, the revered

saint-teacher of Assam, Shankara Deva, inspired a popular Vaishnavite movement that

sought to reform the esoteric practices of Tantric Hinduism and to limit the prerogatives

of Brahmins attached to the Ahom court. The Ahoms themselves patronized an extensive

network of Vaishnavite monasteries (satras), whose monks played a key role in the

reclamation of wastelands for rice cultivation throughout the Brahmaputra Valley.

Because of its rejection of caste related privilege, Shankara Deva's Vaishnavism held

immense appeal for the local tribals.Consequently within a short period of time it became

a highly popular cult.

Hemchandra Barua –one of the greatest

intellectuals of Assam

Geographical Profile of Assam

 

 The state, being T-shaped, consists of the northern Brahmaputra valley, the middle

Karbi and Cachar hills and the southern Barak valley. Assam has a stunning grandeur

of dense tracts of tropical forests, interspersed with emerald patchwork quilts of paddy

and lush tea gardens enriched by the flow of river Brahmaputra (‘Son of Brahma'). The

alluvial plains of the Assam valley (100 km at its widest) enjoy an abundance of

natural riches. The state is the largest producer of timber and tea in the country and it

has the oldest oil refinery in India. Assam is the only region in the world that has its

own variety of tea, called Camellia assamica. Assam tea is grown at elevations near

sea level, giving it malt sweetness and an earthy flavor, as opposed to the more floral

aroma of highland teas.

Assam also produces crude oil and natural gas. Most of the oilfields of Assam are located

in the Upper Assam region of the Brahmaputra Valley.

Interactive map of Assam

Assam experiences heavy rainfall between March and September, with very high

humidity in the summer months. The state produces a lot of Bamboo. This mystic land of

eternal blue hills, beautiful rivers with rich flora and fauna also has the world famous one

horned rhinoceros and other rare species of wildlife which are on the verge of extinction.

Assam is divided into 23 districts:

Barpeta            Bongaigaon     Cachar

Darrang            Dhemaji          Dhubri

Dibrugarh          Goalpara        Golaghat

Hailakandi         Jorhat            Kamrup

Karbi Anglong    Karimganj        Kokrajhar

Lakhimpur         Marigaon         Nagaon

Nalbari             North Cachar Hills

Sibsagar           Sonitpur          Tinsukia

 

Overview of Assam: A paradise for nature lovers

Assam and surrounding regions have to be a paradise for the nature lovers and

researchers. The region's unique natural settings, hydro-geomorphic environment and

biodiversity have no parallel in Asia. Within a eighty to hundred kilometres of journey by

land, one can travel from a flat flood plain with tropical rainforests and wet paddy fields

to mountainous regions of Alpine-Himalayan climatic conditions at very high altitude.

Geomorphic studies conclude that the Brahmaputra, the life-line of Assam is a paleo-

river; older than the Himalayas. The river with steep gorges and rapids in Arunachal

Pradesh entering Assam, becomes a braided river (at times 16 km wide) and with

tributaries, creates a flood plain (Brahmaputra Valley: 80-100 km wide, 1000 km long).

The hills of Karbi Anglong, North Cachar and those in and close to Guwahati (also

Khasi-Garo Hills) now eroded and dissected are originally parts of the South Indian

Plateau system. In the south, the Barak originating in the Barail Range (Assam-Nagaland

border), flows through the Cachar district with a 40-50km wide valley and confluences

with the Brahmaputra in Bangladesh.

Assam is one of the richest biodiversity zones in the world and consists of tropical

rainforests, deciduous forests, riverine grasslands, bamboo orchards and numerous

wetland ecosystems; Many are now protected as national parks and reserved forests. The

Kaziranga, home of the rare Rhinoceros, and Manas are two UNESCO World Heritage

Sites in Assam. Pabitora has the highest density of rhinos. The reserve forests of Joypur,

Upper Dihing and Dirak are a stretch of pristine rainforests. The region is the last refuge

for numerous other endangered species such as Golden Langur or Honali Bandor

(Trachypithecus geei), White-winged Wood Duck or Deohanh (Cairina scutulata),

Bengal Florican or Ulumora, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Pygmy Hog or Nolgahori,

Greater Adjutant or Hargila, Hispid Hare or Khagorikota, Slow Loris or Lajuki Bandor,

Swamp Francolin or Koira and so on. Some other endangered species with significant

population in Assam are Tiger, Elephant, Hoolock Gibbon, Jerdon's Babbler and so on.

Climate of Assam

There are two distinct climates operating in Assam. While the hills of Assam enjoy sub-

alpine climate, the plains of the state experience tropical climate with high humidity level

in the monsoon.

Winter touches this state in the end of the month of October and lasts until the end of

February. The nights are cold and the mornings are foggy during Winter season.

After Winter, the beautiful Spring season arrives to Assam. This is the festive season in

Assam. Then, Summer begins by mid-May with high level of humidity and rainfall. June

is the beginning of monsoon. During, monsoon season, thunderstorms known as

"Bordoichila" is a frequent occurrence during the afternoons.

Autumn season begins in August and lasts till October. Spring and autumn with moderate

temperatures and modest rainfall are the best seasons in Assam. If you are planning to

visit Assam, plan your trip during Spring or Autumn season.

Best Tourist places of Assam State

Assam State of India is in the Northeast part of India and known for Assam Tea Estates,

excellent Tourist places of Assam, marvelous Valley of Bramhaputra in Assam,

Assam Forests etc.

Amongst the adventures places in Assam, the name of Kaziranga National Park in

Assam (Forest of Assam State) comes first. Kaziranga National Park in Assam is world

famous Tourist Spot in Assam located in Golaghat district of Assam. Alongside

Kaziranga Forest in Assam, Manas Tiger park in Assam located in Barpeta district also

has an impact to the adventures and travelers of Assam. Another world popular Forest

of Assam is Orang National Park in Assam, which attracts many domestic &

international tourists every year.

Other than National Parks in Assam/Forests in Assam, Assam traveler can also visit other

tourist spots of Assam like Majuli – River Island of Assam, Sualkuchi – Silk City of

Assam etc.

Those who are religious and love temples; Assam State has also stored many Religious

Places in Assam like Kamakhya Temple in Assam, Basistha Ashram in Assam,

Nabagraha Temple in Assam, Gandhi Mandap in Assam and travelers of Assam

shouldn’t miss the Bihu Festival of Assam and other Festivals of Assam State.

At last but not least, Assam Tea Gardens and Assam CTC Tea estates is the stunning

tourist attraction of Assam. All together Assam State is waiting for you with Hill

Stations in Assam, Island of Assam, Temples & Religious places in Assam, National

Parks in Assam, Assam State Zoo & Botanical Garden in Assam, Assam State Museum

and Tea Estates in Assam.

Assam Tourism has improved immensely in last few years with the help of many Travel

Agencies of Assam and Assam Travel Guides of Assam State. Nowadays a quick visit to

Assam has made easier to the tourists of Assam by the Assam State Government. Check

out the Assam Railways, Transports & Airlines connectivity.

Temples and other religious places

Aswaklanta is one of ancient temple in Assam famous as Hindu pilgrimage. Situated

near to Guwahati and Brahmaputra, this temple also carries scenic beauty.

Aswaklanta Temple @flick Ken McChesney

Aswaklanta Temple was built by Ahom King Shiva Singha in 1720. Shiva Singha built

most of the biggest Hindu temples of Assam including the famous Shiva Dole of

Sivasagar. The temple is situated by the bank of mighty Brahmaputra. There are two

temples in that holy place. One situated in the foot hill and the other in the up hill -

Kurmayanardan and Anantasayi by name.

The place where the temples were built holds hindo mythological importance. Mythology

says that while Lord Krishna searched for Narakasur to kill him, his horse got tired in this

place.This is how this place was named Aswa-Klanta. Aswa means 'Horse' and Klanta

means 'Tired' in Assamese. According to another legend, horses belonged to Arjun, the

great Pandava and friend of Krishna, were persuaded in this place to stay back from the

better scene so that Abhimanyu could get killed. It was a conspirancy and called

'abhikranta' in assamese. From this word the place was named as Aswa-krata. And later it

became Aswaklanta in popular language.

The temple was damaged in the great earth quake of Assam in 1897. But it was reapired

under patronage of lord Kurzon, then viceroy of Assam.

Formally there was a Kunda, a place of sacrifice near the temple. Now this Kunda does

not exist because it was eroded by the river Brahamputra. Inside the temple, there are two

images one of Janardana and the other of Anantasai Vishnu. The later is a fine art

specimen of eleventh century. There is one stone inscription on the body of the temple.

Aswaklanta- Brahmaputra in the backdrop @flickr jcdl

The temple is well connected by both road and ferries. Crossing Brahmaputra in Ferries

can be a wonderful experience. The serene beuty of the place attracts everyone.

Janmashtami and Ashokashtami are two hindu festivals most celerated in this temple.

Athekhelia Namghar is one of the holy places in Assam. It is one of the oldest namghar

and was center of Vashnavism in upper Assam.

Gate of Athkhelia Namghar Inside - The Thapona

It is believed that Mahapurux Madhavdev and his diciples first established a Namghar by

the side of Borholla river near Golaghat. Namghar is a center of Vaishnavism and

religious culture.Historical reference of this Namghar is found in the time Gadapani, the

Ahom King. Gadapani, later known as Gadadhar Singha, took shelter in this religious

place when Lora Roja (Child King), then king of Ahom planned to kill ot handicap each

and every eligible prince of Ahom. This was just to secure his throne. Gadapani first fled

to Naga Hills to escape the wrath of his king. Later he descended fromt the hills to the

plains and hide himself in this Athkhelia Namghar with the saints. Eventually Gadapani

captured the throne in 1681. He was grateful towards Athkhelia and decided to entrust the

place.

It is believed that Gadapani donated Eight Bigha land and 160 coins(equivalent to eight

kuri) to the Namghar, so it was named as Ath-kuria. 'Ath' means eight and 'kuri' is an unit

of 20 in assamese. Later it became Athkhelia. According to another belief, there were

eight 'khel' (scoial divisions) in that area. The Namghar supervised thereligious and

cultural development of those eight khels, so it was named as Athkhelia. The eight khels

were Bachakuri, Boiragikuri, Brahmankuri, Nangalkuri, Salalkuri, Kacharikuri,

Borahikuri and Kakotikuri.

Nagsankar Temple is one of ancient Hindu temple of Assam. The temple attracts large

number of tourists every year

Pond of Nagsankar Temple

Nagsankar Mandir is situated east of Tezpur , a place called Chatia, new Biswanath

Chariali. The exact history of the temple is not definite. It was built around 4th Century

AD. According to one believe, the temple was built by a King called Nag Sankar from

Lohitya dynasty in late 4th century. Nagsankar reigned eastern Kamrup (ancient name of

Assam) in 378 AD. He was a great king and sent his representatives to his contemporary

the Great Asoka of Maurya dynasty.

According to another believe, the Nagsankar temple was built by king Nagmatta.

Nagmatta is another name of the powerful king of Assam, Arimatta. Arimatta has

important palce in mythology too. He is believed to be son of the river-god Brahmaputra,

who blessed beautiful wife of king Ramchandra with a son.

Ahom king Su-sen-pha repaired Nagsankar temple in 1480. With this work the king was

able to spread his kingdom to the north bank of the river Brahmaputra and win the faith

of the people of the region.

The temple has a large pond by it. The pond is home to large varities of turtles and large

fish. Some turtles are believed to be hundreds of year old. The temple campus also has

peacock, deer , pythons etc. These animals along with the temple attract tourists.

Ugratara is considered to be one of the very important Shaktipeeth (Power shrine)

situated at the heart of the Guwahati City.

Ugratara Temple @flickr Tamjyoti Bose

Ugratara, Sivalaya and the Jurpukhuri

The Ugratara Devalaya is situated In the heart of the Guwahati city, in the Uzan Bazar

area. It attracts large number of pilgrims every year. The 'Navaratri' is the most celebrated

holy festival in this temple every year. Traditionally The temple practices animal

sacrifices to please the goddess. Ugratara is believed to the the aroused, or demonic form

of Sati. In this form she loves liquor, meat and utter devotion. That is why goats, cocks,

ducks and even buffalos sacrificed in the temple. During Durga Puja and Kali Puja the

temple campus sees maximum sacrifices.

Umananda is an ancient temple situated right in the middle of the river Brahmaputra.

Its picturesque and a must visit place near Guwahati.

Craftings at Umananda Island @flick east med wanderer

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Siva created this place his wife Uma's happiness

and pleasure. Siva is said to have resided here in the form of Bhayananda. Thats why this

place is called Uma-Nanda. Uma means Siva's wife and Ananda means happiness.

According to another myth in Kalika Purana, Lord Siva burnt Kamdeva with his Third

eye in this place when he tried to interrupt Siva's deep meditation. So it is also known as

'Bhasmachal'. 'Bhasma' means ash and 'chal' means home in assamese.This place a small

island, probably one of the smallest among the river islands, situated in the majestic

Brahmaputra river.

Umananda island is home to few golden langur also. This one of the rarest species of

monkeys found in Assam. A visit to Umananda will give you glimpse of this langur too.

Umananda Temple @flickr jcdl

Kamalabari Satra is considered as one of the most influential Satra of Assam. It has

been not only the center of Vaishnavism but also cultural center of the region.

Satra(Xatra) is the most powerful and unique religious institutional trend started by

Mahapurux Srimanta Sankardeva, the father of the Neo-Vaishnavite Movement in

Assam. It is said that Sankaradeva established the first Satra by planting a Bilva tree and

naming the place Belguri (Bilva Tree shelter) in Majuli (then known as Dhuwahat), the

largest river island in the world.

Gate of the Kamalabari Satra in Majuli

In the post Snakardeva and his most able disciple Madhavdeva period, the Neo-

Vashnavite movement was continued by their disciples. Padma Ata, also known as

Badala Ata, took the leadership in the eastern Assam and Majuli. Initially a swordsman in

the army, he exhibited a supreme distrust in worldly affairs after witnessing the large-

scale massacre of men and animals during the expedition against the Daflas, and became

a disciple of Madhavadeva at Koch-Behar. In 1595 Badala Ata established a Satra in the

Orange Garden of one of his disciples, Purusottama Baruah, in Majuli. The satra was

named as Kamalabari, Kamala means Orange and Bari means Garden in Assamese. Ata

stayed in this Satra till his death nominating his Brahman disciple Srirama as his heir of

the kamalabari satra.

The main building of Barpeta Satra and Kirtan Ghar

Mahtura Das was a disciple of Madhabdeva and requested the Mahapursh to come down

to Barpeta. He also arranged a buliding for the saint. It was built on the spot where

Sankaradeva had the big Vrindavani Vastra woven by Mathuradasa and other weavers. It

became the Kirtan-Ghar (prayer hall) of the Saint during his stay in Barpeta. This Kirtan

Ghar is the biggest prayer hall among all the Satras of Assam till date. The building was

built by Mathura Das with special care. Timber was obtained from selected sites. Three

of Madhavadeva’s disciples - Parvatiya Krishnai, Rama Karikar and Vibhisana - worked

as carpenters and made ready the required number of posts and beams, and an Asana

(holy pedestal). Bamboos were brought from the Bajali pargana; the stronger ones were

split into long rods (kami) and the thinner made into whole rods to be reaching from the

eaves to the nave (ruwa). These split and whole rods were kept under water for some time

in order to give them durability, and were then dyed red.

Vibhisana and Krishnai, the carpenters, made floral designs (lata-phul) on the main

gateway (pat-dvar), and two wooden representations of Jaya and Vijaya, the gatekeepers

of Vaikuntha. This magnificent and colourful view of the Kirtan Ghar was therefore

called rangiyal-ghar (rang=colour).

The beautiful crafting on the walls of the Barpeta Satra

When Madhabdeva was spending his last years in Koc-Behar, the rangiyal-ghar was

destroyed by fire. Mathuradasa rebuilt the house on a larger scale with a view to

accommodating the increasing number of adherents of the Satra. The original spots on

which Madhabdeva and the reader of the Bhagavata (Bhagavati) used to sit were not

disturbed, and this is the reason these two seats are behind the Guru-Aasana today.

The Kirtan Ghar is now considered as epitome of medieval Assamese architecture ans

sculpture.

Apart from the Kirtan Ghar, the Satra has several other buildings. The front gate is called

"Batsora". All the ‘bhakats’ or ‘devotees’ discussed all kinds of problems in the

Jagmohan Ghar. In the ‘Bhajghar’ a lamp is continously burning for more than 500 years

that is called ‘Akhay banti.Within the premises a cultural school,Shri Shri Mathura Das

Burha Ata Library,study-room, office and kitchen,guest house are also located.

The Thapona inside the Kirtan Ghar

CUISINE OF ASSAM

The Cuisine of Assam, a state in North-East India, is a mixture of different indigenous

styles with considerable regional variations and some external influences. It is

characterized by very little use of spices but strong flavors due mainly to the use of

endemic exotic herbs, fruits and vegetables that are either fresh, dried or fermented. Fish

is widely used, and birds like duck, pigeon etc. are very popular. Pork dishes are

particular favorites. Preparations are rarely elaborate—the practice of Bhuna,

Cucumber Khar  

the gentle frying of spices before the addition of the main ingredients so common in

Indian cooking, is absent in the cuisine of Assam.

A traditional meal in Assam begins with a khar, a class of dishes named after the main

ingredient, and ends with a tenga, a sour dish. These two dishes characterize a traditional

meal in Assam. The food is usually served in bell metal utensils made by an indigenous

community called Mariya. Tamul (betel nut, generally raw) and paan generally concludes

the meal.

Ingredients

The cuisine of Assam is strongly influenced by the local ingredients, especially because

this cuisine tries to preserve the natural flavors or augment them by processes like drying,

fermentation etc.

Rice

Rice is the most important ingredient in this cuisine. The large varieties of rice found in

the region has led to speculation that the grain was first domesticated in the Assam-

Yunnan region. Both the indica as well as the japonica varieties are grown in Assam. The

most popular class of rice is the joha. Rice is eaten in many different forms: roasted and

ground (xandoh), boiled in its husk and flattened (chira), puffed (akhoi). There also

grows a variety of rice that can be just soaked and eaten (Komal Saul).

Rice is a part of all meals in Assam. A traditional breakfast consists of chira with yogurt

and jaggery. Farmers eat cooked rice soaked overnight (poita) garnished with mustard oil,

onions, etc. Snacks would be xandoh, Komal Saul or bora saul with milk. For other major

meals, rice could be boiled, steamed or wrapped in leaves and roasted.

Fish

The next most important ingredient is the fish, harvested from the many rivers, ponds and

lakes in the region. There is no traditional ethnic community in Assam that does not eat

fish. Most traditional rural households have their own ponds for pisciculture. Some of the

most popular fishes are the Rohu, the Hilsa and the chital (Chitala chitala), though the

varieties of fish available and eaten is very large.

Other locally found fishes are: Wallago attu, Whitefish, Bahu, Bato, Naro, Pabho, Aari,

Meat with bamboo shoot, cooked wild herbs, banana stems and more  

Meat

Pork and beef dishes are particularly favorites in the tribes in Assam although general

people also sometimes have pork, but not basically. The basic cooking method is boiling.

Onla, of the Bodos, is made with ground rice and special herbs, and constitutes a

complete meal in itself. Other meat includes Squab, Duck, Chicken, mutton, venison,

turtle although venison and turtle meat are legally prohibited. The combination of duck –

white gourd and Squab – papaya or banana flower is very popular. Meat is curried in

spicy gravy.

Greens and Vegetables

The environs of Assam are rich in vegetation, and green leafy vegetables, called xaak,

are an important part of the cuisine. Some of them are grown while others like the dhekia

(fern) grows wild. There is a bewildering variety that is eaten and according to custom,

one has to have a hundred different xaaks (greens) during Rongali Bihu. Locally

available green leafy vegetables are: Spinach, Mustard greens, lai (a family of mustard

greens), fenugreek greens, khutora, amaranth, moricha, dherua (radish leaf), chuka,

Costumes of Assam

Muga or the golden silk fiber of Assam constitutes the lion`s share of the costumes of

Assam. The characteristic of the durable Muga silk is that it lasts for years and adds

radiance to itself, after every wash. It is interesting watching the silk-cultivation in

Assam. One can watch the silkworm in its cocoon stage, till the unfolding into worm`s

generated silk-thread, and finally the conversion of the threads into the gorgeous saris at

the handloom. Almost twenty eight thousand families are engaged in silk-rearing in

Assam. The delicate designs, finely woven, on the saris cater to patterns in nature, for

example the flora and the fauna. Embroideries also incorporate, acquainted and culture-

related things, such as architecture and stone-sculptures on the Madan Kamdev Temple in

Assam.

Now-a-days, Muga artisans, indulge in experimentation. They offer contrast creations of

pinkish red or greenish blue and other innovative as well as traditional colors of red, blue,

yellow, green, against the inherent golden color of the fabric. Assam silk saris Bridal

wears are decked with gold and silver threads, to make the bride catch a marvelous get-up

on her special occasion. The Assam silk saris are perfectly suitable for parties, wedding

ceremonies and mirthful festivals. It endows on any woman, who wears it, an aura of

elegance. This high quality textile of Assam, Muga silk, serves as the material-base, even

for the traditional costume of Assam, called Mekhla Chadar. The Mekhla is an awesome

ensemble, which resembles a sari, and is yet not a sari. The distinction lies in the fact that

a Mekhla is composed of two or three pieces of cloth, whereas a sari is a single piece of

cloth. One half of the Mekhla is worn as the skirt or petticoat or Lungi, while the other

half, Chaddar, is akin to the sari`s Anchal, used as the upper-garment for the skirt. Added

to the Chaddar, blouses are worn, below Chadar, to complete the dress. The Mekhla skirt

bears a broad border and is thicker in texture, but the Anchal is light-weight for easier

handling. A Mekhla is hence a mix and match of Aanchal and Lungi. However, the

Chadar, is adorned with spell-bound weavings, integral to the weaving-ace Assamese.

The Chadar is worn in a special criss-cross pleated-form, down the front side. Assamese

women look marvelous in these fascinating costumes of Assam.

Bodo tribe of Assam resides amidst the

lush greenery of Assam. The Bodo tribal

womenfolk acknowledge Mekhla as their

prevalent costume. Along with the

Chaddar, an upper-wrap called Riha. In

fact, this happens to be the usual costume

of the rustic people of Assam. The men

of the Bodo tribe, dresses themselves in

Dhoti (an Indian loin cloth) and Chaddar,

made from Endi (a material made from

conglomeration of silk and cotton). Very

similar to the costume of the Bodo tribe,

is the dressing style of another, tribal community, the Mech tribe, and silk-weavers in

profession. The Dimasa tribes are renowned for their expertise in silk- culture and

weaving-prowess. They are indeed the producers of Endi.

Gaam Kharu is a large-sized silver bangle with shimmering gold polish. Another

fashionable earring is Lokaporo, wherein two gold or ruby or mina or enamel-plated, bird

figures are conjoined together, back to back. Assamese costume has cast an enchanting

spell on not only India, but on foreign nations also, because of their mind-blowing

perfection.

Muga silk sarees are the exclusive creations of the artisans of east India. These sarees are

admired for the natural sheen and gorgeousness they possess.

Virtually all the world`s maximum Muga silk, almost 93 per cent of the total creations is

produced in Assam. The town of Sibsagar (Sibsagar district) is the centre of its muga

sericulture industry. Muga silk naturally has a rich golden colour with a more lustrous

sheen than the other wild silks though the fabric of Muga silk is not as shiny as mulberry

silk.

In recent times, the artisans of eastern region create Muga saree with traditional designs

woven in coloured cotton. Muga silk saree is the rarest and most luxurious of all India`s

wild silks sarees, being a natural deep gold colour. These fabrics are never dyed. The

traditional red and black patterning is sometimes done on this saree, which is typically

Assamese. The artisans create exclusive sun-tree motif in the field of the endpiece to add

an extra charm.

The Muga silk sarees are admired for the exclusivity of the natural colour of the fabric

itself in all over India. The women of east India wear Muga silk sarees in pujas and

sometimes the well off widows wear Muga sarees with minimal designing.

he word Assam is appropriately derived from the Sanskrit word asom, meaning peerless.

This beautiful state is known for its natural beauty, cultural richness and diversity. An

astonishing variety of flora and fauna, several

meandering rivers and streams, and a luxuriant

cover of foliage lend it a freshness and vibrancy.

The majestic Brahmputra River that flows through

the state is, quite naturally, its most striking feature.

The Golden Culture

The first Assamese king, Sukha-Pha, who defeated

the Nagas and other local chieftains to enter Assam

after crossing the PatKai range in the 13th century, is also credited with introducing silk

in the state. Silk rearing began in upper Assam during his reign and was chiefly intended

for the use of the royal family.

Assams great gift is muga silk. Not only is it sensuous and beautiful, it is also strong and

durable. Assams golden silk is obtained from the caterpillar, Antheraea. The climatic

conditions are favorable for rearing this semi-domesticated worm and its food plant.

Widely distributed and cultured in the Brahmaputra valley, the silk worm is multivoltine

and non-hibernating. As many as 26,797 families, are known to be associated with the

culture of muga silk in the state.

Handlooms

Assam is the home of several types of silks, the most prominent and prestigious being

muga, the golden silk exclusive only to this state. Muga apart, there is paat, as also eri,

the latter being used in manufacture of warm clothes for winter. Of a naturally rich

golden color, muga is the finest of Indias wild silks. It is produced only in Assam.

Weaving

Weaving in Assam is so replete with artistic

sensibility and so intimately linked to folk life

that Gandhiji, during his famous tour to promote

khadi and swadeshi, was so moved that he

remarked: "Assamese women weave fairy tales

in their clothes!"

According to tradition, the skill to weave was

the primary qualification of a young girl for her

eligibility for marriage. This perhaps explains

why Assam has the largest concentration of

Handlooms and weavers in India. One of the

worlds finest artistic traditions finds expression in their exquisitely woven Eri, Muga and

Pat fabrics.

The traditional handloom silks still dominate the world markets. They score over factory-

made silks in the richness of their textures and designs, in their individuality, character

and classic beauty. No two hand-woven silks are exactly alike. Personality of the weaver,

her hereditary skill, her innate senses of color and balance, all help to create a unique

product.

The loom is a prized possession in every Assamese home. Weaving has been a way of

life in the state since times immemorial. The oldest and largest industry in Assam is its

handloom industry, known equally for its pristine simplicity and unequalled charm. For

the people of Assam, weaving is not just a commercial venture but also a symbol of love

and affection. The techniques of weaving are handed down over generations, allusions to

that are available in Assamese literature and scriptures.

Though essentially female craft, in villages such as Sualkuchi, both men and women

practice weaving. Sualkuchi is a large centre for the production of muga cloth. The silk

products of this area have acquired an international reputation. Weaving has become such

a way of life that should a girl choose not to learn the craft, it is considered no less than a

scandal.

When a girl weaves a floral design on the bihuan, a gift given to her beloved on the

occasion of the Bihu festival, she puts all her heart into it. No wonder the design on the

bihuan is no less than a spiritual creation.

In Sualkuchi village, different attachments are used for designs involving extra threads.

For extra warp designs, dobby or jacquard machines are used. The use of dobby has

limited scope due to its short range of control over threads in a repeat. In the case of

jacquard, there is a wider scope since a large number of threads can be controlled in a

repeat, depending upon the size of the machine. The use of extra warp provides the

opportunity to weave elaborate designs conveniently. Yarns of different types and colors

can be incorporated lengthwise in the extra warp. However, the extra warp makes

beaming difficult since it requires two or more warp beams, and the drafting of extra ends

is usually complicated.

Motifs

The designs and motifs of

Assamese fabrics are inspired from

nature, and from familiar objects

that surround them. Though the

traditional motifs from the past are

strictly geometrical, over time

some lyrical and flowing designs

have also developed.

Diamonds in different characters

form an interesting part of Assamese design. The influence of architecture is also evident.

The figurative and non-figurative stone carvings from the Madan Kamdev temple are

incorporated in the woven patterns.

Animals, birds, plants and flowers etc. form important textile motifs. Juhi is a prominent

floral motif depicted with six or seven small petals. An interesting tree motif is widely

used as a side motif. Animal and bird motifs include figures of peacocks, parrots,

pigeons, lions, horses and elephants.

Cane Work

One of the finest examples of craft skills in

Assam is its cane work. The raw material,

profusely available in its lush forests,

provides the industry with its strength and

sustenance. Every district in Assam is rich

in cane products. Independent

entrepreneurs have explored new markets

for the development and boosting of exports using cane for creating more

contemporaneous craft products.

The Cane and Bamboo Development Institute is experimenting with the processes for

coloring cane using natural vegetable dyes. This has resulted in the development of such

colors as pale brown, black and khaki.

A wide range of cane furniture and accompanying articles such as flower vases, fans,

boxes and trays are produced from cane. The finest of the products is the sitalpati, a

smooth, soft mat that has the additional advantage of remaining cool to the touch, made

in the Katakhal area of Cachar district. In Assam, people use such palls as mattresses

during the summer months.

The Unusual Japi Head Dress

Nothing typifies Assam more than

the commonplace japi, used both as

a hat and an umbrella. An entire

group of artisans, the Japisajias,

residents of Japisajia Gaon, are

devoted to the making of japis.

Made of takoupat leaves obtained

from a wild plant called tekou, the

quality of a japi depends on its

workmanship.

The peasants wear inferior japis as they go about their daily chores in the paddy fields,

while those of superior quality are reserved for festive or ceremonial occasions.

These circular japis are ornamented with red and black cloth in a variety of geometrical

shapes accentuating the delicate trelliswork. A variety of floral motifs as well as bits of

mica add color to these japis, so much so that visitors carry them away as souvenirs of

their trip to Assam. The size of a japi can vary greatly from that of a bowler hat at its

smallest, to one that may have a diameter of six feet, at its largest. Till recent times, the

bigger japis, called bar japis, were worn by ladies as a screen.

Textiles and Dresses of the Different Tribes of Assam

Bodo

The culture of Assam is incomplete without the

description of the weaving culture among the Bodos.

The dress of the Bodo is similar to those worn by the

rural Assamese folks. The women wear Mekhela,

Chaddar and Riha while the men use dhoti and

Chaddars. In winter, they wear thickly woven endi

Chaddars. However, the design of their Mekhela is

simpler than those of Assamese non-tribals.

Dimasa Kachchari

The tradition of rearing silk cocoon, reeling and spinning into yarn and finally weaving

into fabrics was a flourishing industry among the people of this tribe. The fabric

produced by them was superior to any other Endi, produced fabric woven elsewhere in

the country.

The dress reflects the culture of the people. This is true in case of the Dimasas too. A

Dimasa man wears a Risha similar to Dhoti but deep green in color. He uses a chaddar

called Rimsao beautifully designed to cover upper half of his body. Cotton or endi turban

is the common headdress. A dimasa woman puts on a skirt known as Rigu similar to

Assamese Mekhela or Meithei fanek. Either it is made of cotton or silk, may be white or

coloured to cover her body below the waist.

Bihu

The Dance

A set of three different secular festivals of Assam is termed as Bihu Dance.

Performed by the young girls and boys of Assam, thid dance displays the various

colors of Bihu Community.This Folk dance of Assam is enjoyed by all - yong, old rich

and poor. Bihu Dance is a part of the Festival.

Facets Of Bihu:

BihuThe word Bihu is derived from visuvan that describes a number of festivals in India.Rongali Bihu draws from many different traditions—Austro-Asiatic, Sino-Burmese and Indo-Aryan—and is celebrated with particular fervor.

Costume of Bihu DancersDhoti, Gamocha and Chadar, Mekhala. are worn during the dance. Women dress themselves with Jwellery and the plaits filled with flowers. The Color of the flowers is in matching with the dress worn by the dancer.

The Dance Form of Bihu

There are two types of Bihu

Dance - Khasi and Garo Bihu

Dance.The Bihu dance is

performed by the Chakmas

during Chaitra Sankranti. The

Khasi dance is characterised by

brisk steppings, flinging and

flipping of hands , and swaying

of the hip symbolizing the fever

of Spring. Garo Bihu Dance is

performed by the Garos of Bihu

Tribe.

The Bihu Dance begans with

the songs or the Bihu Geet

being sung in courtyard of the homes, a little of the dance is also done in the courtyards.

It increases to community functions being held in towns and cities at a large scale. The

most important part of this dance and function is that it is celeberate without the

demarcation of caste and creed.

Arts And Crafts Tourism

Wooden Handicrafts in Assam

The Exaggeration of Skills

Assam is a state rich in arts and crafts skills. The most striking thing about the arts and

crafts of Assam is that they are exactly the way they were even decades ago. The style

and the method of production have not changed a single bit in this part of India. Assam

first came to recognition by the virtue of its exemplary silk quality and its products, and

cane and bamboo items. And still these material are believed to be the best offering of

Assam. People of Assam have always been master in these two arts, but with time many

more scintillating handicraft forms emerged in Assam like metal crafts, pottery and

woodcrafts. You will find different forms prevalent in different parts of Assam like Hajo

and Sarthebari Villages near Guwahati are known for the metal products that are

produced here.

Cane And Bamboo

This is probably the favorite form of handicrafts in Assam. It has been practiced in

Assam since ages and the products have become better and better with time. You will

notice that many items used in Assam households are made up of cane and bamboo. Not

only items, there are complete houses as well that are build of cane and bamboo. The

main items are the cane baskets, music instruments and the weaving accessories.

Although the most famous product is definitely the Jaapi, the traditional sunshade. Used

even today, they have become as stylish as they are useful.

Metal Crafts

Metal crafts in Assam consist of generally bell metal and brass metal. Their use can be

seen even in ancient times in utensils and statues. Today, they are also used for making

fancy household items. During the days of Royalty, even gold and silver were used. But

now they are only used in making jewelery. Hajo and Sarthebari villages are the most

famous for metal works in Assam. They are quite close to Guwahati, so you can easily

get their products in the many shopping markets in the capital city.

Pottery

Pottery works has been a been a part of Human life since the beginning. Though it came

to Assam a bit late but still it has been centuries since pottery has made its mark in

Assam. The Kumars and Hiras are the two traditional communities in Assam that are

indulged in Pottery works. There method of production is completely different from each

other. The Kumars use the Potters wheel for producing their articles whereas the Hiras

make them without the use of the wheel. The other striking feature of the Hiras is that, in

their community only women indulge in pottery works. Men go out for procuring raw

materials and for selling the finished items. The main articles that you will find in

households are the incense holder, clay pots and other fancy articles.

Monuments of Assam

Monuments of Assam have a rich cultural heritage of the ancient and the medieval period

of the ruling dynasties. The monuments present in this beautiful state are in the form of

forts and places as well as in the form of religious buildings also.

The major number of monuments of Assam belongs to the medieval period i.e. from 6th

century A.D. to 19th century A.D. The monuments of the state maintained a cultural

contact with the present day Bangladesh and Burma. The monuments of Assam can be

classified into Pre-Ahom Period, Ahom period, Koch dynasty, Chutia dynasty, Jaintia

and Kahari dynasties, Secular architecture

and Islamic architecture.

The monuments of the Pre-Ahom Period

were the temple constructions. Basically

these are stone temples standing on heaps of

ruins. The remains of the stylish ground and

scattered components of the temple

materials represent the glorious period of

the Gupta dynasty. Due to the earthquake

and damp climatic conditions the monuments of the Pre-Ahom Period fell down making

them irreparable. During the Pre-Ahom Period, three dynasties flourished in Assam.

These dynasties are Varman dynasty, Salastambha dynasty and Pala dynasty. They

developed their separate art works to that state which declined due to their inner conflict.

However, the Varman rulers continued the Gupta art style under the Gupta Empire. The

Gupta architectural styles feature the figures of Ganga and Yamuna, the river Goddess to

the temple dvara, garbagriha and mandapa to the plinth of the temple, dehali,

dvarasakhas, sikhara, stambha and sirsa to the other parts of the temple. The monumental

style of this period declined due to the end of the Pala rule in the 12th century.

Assam is the central state in the North-East Region of India and serves as the gateway to

the rest of the Seven Sister States - Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram,

Tripura and Meghalaya. The climate is sub-tropical. Assam experiences the Indian

monsoon and has one of the highest forest densities in India. The winter months are the

best time to visit. Located south of the eastern Himalayas, Assam comprises the

Brahmaputra and the Barak river valleys and the Karbi Anglong and the North Cachar

Hills. With an area of 78,438 sq.km Assam currently is almost equivalent to the size of

Ireland or Austria. It has a rich cultural heritage going back to the Ahom Dynasty which

governed the region for many centuries before the British occupation.

Assam Tourism host an annual 'Tea Festival' in the month of November.In this festival

you can taste different types of tea under one roof. The venue for the festival is 'Guwahati

Tea

Auction Centre', Guwahati. Sightseeing is also organised during the festival.

Festival of Assam

The Bihu Festival of Assam

Bihu is the National Festival of Assam, one of the most beautiful states of India, known

for its tea gardens, lush green forests and the mighty Brahmaputra river. The origin of the

word ‘Bihu" is said to be from the Sanskrit word ‘Vishu’.

The Assamese celebrate three types of Bihu in a year - Rongaali Bihu or ‘Bohaag Bihu’,

Kati Bihu or Kongaali Bihu and the last but not the least Magh Bihu or Bhogaali Bihu’.

The Bihus mark three distinct phases of the farming calendar for the native crop of

Assam i.e. paddy. Bohaag Bihu marks the advent of the seeding time, the Kati Bihu

marks the completion of sowing of paddy and transplantation of the saplings (‘Kothia’)

and finally Magh Bihu marks the culmination of the harvesting period.

Another item which forms an integral part of the Bihu celebrations and is also symbolic

of Assamese Culture is the Japi – a traditional Bamboo hat with colorful designs. A more

simple bamboo Japi is normally worn by the farmer while cultivating in the field

protecting oneself from the sun and rain.

The folk songs associated with Bohaag Bihu are known as ‘Bihu Geet’; Bihu Geet is

symbolic of communication of love and romance among the village youth and the village

belles. The dances are accompanied by traditional Assamese instruments like the Dhol

(the Drum), Pepa, Gagana, Toka etc..

Traditionally Bihu has been celebrated with Bihu dance and Bihu Geets in the village

fields and courtyards, with groups of youths going from house to house, singing Bihu

songs which is known as Husori. The same practice slowly got transformed to holding

community functions mainly in towns and cities where cultural functions are held; such

functions are based on Bihu dance and Bihu geets which depict mainly Bihu dances and

songs.

The end of the Bohaag Bihu is marked by the celebration of Bohagi Bidaai, i.e. farewell

to Bohaag.

Kati Bihu is the most quiet Bihu of the three without any funfare unlike the other two.

Held in the beginning of the Kati (7th month of the Assamese calendar) (middle of

October), the Bihu marks silent prayer in the form of lighting of earthen lamps in the

paddy fields and also near Tulasi tree for the success of the crop.

Bhogaali Bihu is celebrated in January, immediately after the traditional paddy

cultivation is harvested. An overnight community function is held in temporary thatched

houses (made with thatch and dry plantation leaves/ trunk) known as Bhela Ghar or Meji

Ghar) specially erected for the purpose mainly in the barren paddy fields from where the

crop has already been harvested. A Community feast is one of the main features of this

Bihu which is held near the Bhela Ghar. People spent the night of the community feast in

the Bhela Ghar and early in the morning the same is lit with fire, culminating the

function. A variety of traditional Assamese sweets and cakes like the Laru, Pitha etc. are

prepared on the occasion in every home. The next day is spent by visiting relatives and

friends to convey and exchange the Bihu greetings; the guests, neighbours and relatives

are treated with the snacks prepared for the occasion.

Fairs and Festivals in Assam

Since times immemorial, the north-eastern state of Assam has been the home to a large

number of fairs and festivals, most of which have their origins in the diverse beliefs of

the numerous tribes and races residing there. But the most enticing fact is that every

festival is participated in and equally enjoyed by all the Assamese, irrespective of their

caste and religion. There is a sense of togetherness and unity seen among the masses

during the festive season and the atmosphere everywhere is that of celebrations and

merriment. Each and every festival is celebrated with equal passion and fervor, thus

reflecting the lifestyle and tradition of the people of Assam.

Dance & Musics of Assam

Bihu Dances   :- Bihu is the

most popular folk dance of

Assam. The people of Assam

are very proud of it and rightly

so. Except Bhangra no other

folk dance in India can

compete with the rythmic

exuberance of Bihu. Bihu

dances performed by young

boys and girls characterised by

brisk stepping, flinging and flipping of hands and swaying of hips represents youthful

passion, reproductive urge and 'Joie-de-vivre'.

Satriya Nritya   :-

Satriya, The Beautiful Classic Dance of Assam. During winter (November- February) the

best place to see the Satriya dance is Guwahati. A tourist to Assam during winter would

do well to find out if their visits coincide with the annual Satriya Dance festival organised

by one of the following institutions : Puspanjall Cultural Academy, Sangeet Satra,

Srimanta Sankardev Sangha and Satra Mahasabha. The Satriya Dance festival organised

by these institutions would normally have all the facts of this dance including Dhemalis

by Goyan Bayans. Apart from this, many institutions show Satriya Dance on the make

shift open stages during Bihu festival (April May) The lively and colourful folk dances of

Assam

Tea Folk's Jumur Nach :-

In the passage of more than a hundred years of their settlement in Assam the tea tribes

have developed a synthesised form of dance called "Chah Baganar Jumur Nach". (Jumur

dance of tea garden). This dance is performed by girls and boys together, sometimes by

the girls alone, with precision of foot work while clasping tightly each others waist. This

is a beautiful dance to watch. A visitor to any tea gardens can easily see this dance.

Bodo's Bagurumba  :-

Bodo community has many folk dances to boast. Among them the best and the most

attractive is the Bagurumba dance. This is mainly a formation dance with slow steps and

outstretched hands. About a score of girls dressed in most colourful attire perform this

dance to the accompany- merit of Bodo traditional musical instruments. A tourist in

Assam can see this dance in the Bodo inhabited areas of Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Nalbari,

Darrang and Sonitpur districts.

Festivals

There are several important traditional festivals in Assam. Bihu is the most important and

common and celebrated all over Assam. However, there are other important traditional

festivals being celebrated every year for different occasions at different places. Many of

these are celebrated by different ethno-cultural groups (sub and sister cultures).

A Bihu dancer with a horn

Bihu is a series of three prominent festivals of Assam. Primarily a festival celebrated to

mark the seasons and the significant points of a cultivator's life over a yearly cycle, in

recent times the form and nature of celebration has changed with the growth of urban

centers. A non-religious festival, all communities---religious or ethnic---take part in it.

Three Bihus are celebrated: rongali, celebrated with the coming of spring and the

beginning of the sowing season; kongali, the barren bihu when the fields are lush but the

barns are empty; and the bhogali, the thanksgiving when the crops have been harvested

and the barns are full. Rongali, kongali & bhogali bihu are also known as 'bohag bihu',

'kati bihu' & 'magh bihu' respectively. The day before the each bihu is known as 'uruka'.

There are unique features of each bihu. The first day of 'rongali bihu' is called 'Goru bihu'

(the bihu of the cows). On this day the cows are taken to the nearby rivers or ponds to be

bathed with special care. Traditionally, cows are respected as sacred animals by the

people of Assam. Bihu songs and Bihu dance are associated to rongali bihu.

Music

An Assamese women in Pat Silk performing Sattriya dance.

Assam, being the home to many ethnic groups and different cultures, is very rich in folk

music. The indigenous folk music has in turn influenced the growth of a modern idiom,

that finds expression in the music of such artists like Jyoti Prasad Agarwala,

Bishnuprasad Rabha, Bhupen Hazarika, Nirmalendu Choudhury & Utpalendu

Choudhury, Pratima Barua Pandey, Luit Konwar Rudra Baruah, Parvati Prasad Baruva,

Jayanta Hazarika, Khagen Mahanta among many others. Among the new generation,

Zubeen Garg, Angaraag Mahanta, Debojit Saha, Joi Barua and Jitul Sonowal have a great

fan following.

Tourism in Assam

or the purposes of tourism there are wildlife preserves like the Kaziranga National Park

(pictured), Manas National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Nameri National Park,

Dibru-Saikhowa National Park etc. The climate is sub-tropical. Assam experiences the

Indian monsoon and has one of the highest forest densities in India. The winter months

are the best time to visit.

It has a rich cultural heritage going back to the Ahom Dynasty which governed the region

for many centuries before the British occupation.

Rang Ghar in Sivasagar.

Dakhinpat Satra of Majuli.

Agnigarh Hill, Tezpur.

Jewellery in assam

Jewel Case

Brooches Rings Necklace

Earrings Bangles Necklace

Earrings Bangles Bangles

Pendants Earrings Bracelets

A gemstone, gem or also called precious or semi-precious stone is

a highly attractive and valuable piece of mineral, which -- when cut and polished -- is

used in jewelry or other adornments. However certain rocks, (such as lapis-lazuli) and

organic materials (such as amber or jet) are strictly speaking not minerals, but are still

applied in jewelry and adornments, and are therefore often considered a gemstone as

well. Some minerals that are too soft to be generally applied in jewelry may still be

considered a gemstone because of their remarkable color, luster or other physical

properties that have aesthetic value. Rarity is another characteristic that lends value to a

gemstone.

Gemstone value:

Jewelry made with gem amber, valuable (colored) gemstone is prized especially for its

great beauty, rarity or aesthetics. Although color plays a very important role in

determining the value of a gemstone, many other factors influence its price as well:

market supply, rarity, popularity of a stone, market mechanisms etc.

More...

Pure Gold !

Gold is a precious metal that has been valued by people since ancient times. People use gold for coins, jewelry, ornaments, and many industrial purposes. Gold is a very soft metal when it is pure (24 Ct. is pure gold). It is the most malleable (hammerable) and ductile (able to be made into wire) metal. So gold is usually alloyed (mixed with other metals, often silver and copper) to make it less expensive and harder.

The common Gold alloy to be used in any good quality gold jewel is 22 ct Gold. It

means that the gold is 91.6 % pure and hence the name 916 Pure Gold, an internationally accepted standard.

Take care of your jewels !

1. Always put on your jewels after clothing, make-up, hairspray and perfume. Clothes can snag, and the chemicals and oils in cosmetics can dull the shine of your precious gems and metals. They can even damage very soft and porous gems like opals, pearls, and turquoise.2. Make sure to store your jewels properly. Diamonds can scratch emeralds and platinum can chip rubies. So each piece should be individually wrapped in velvet, tissue or some other soft material and stored in a jewelry box or bag.

How to identify the Real Diamonds ?

Buying a diamond is a very personal and exciting experience. But everyone has a doubt that the diamond is real or fake. There are some ways to find it out.

1. There are electronic diamond testers, that can test for diamonds vs. simulants. (Beware, moissanite is the only stone than can fool the electronic diamond tester.)

2. Flip your diamond upside down and place it over some newsprint. If you can clearly read through the stone, it's not a diamond. (some low cut diamonds or stones such as emeralds can be read through.) This test is called as the transparency test.

Adventure Sports in Assam

The state of Assam located in the North-East region of India is a place pampered by the

mother nature with its special care. Assam state is covered with eye-catching beauty of

curvy mountains, gushing rivers, exotic landscapes with soothing greenery.

The state of Assam located in the North-East region of India is a place pampered by the

mother nature with its special care. Assam state is covered with eye-catching beauty of

curvy mountains, gushing rivers, exotic landscapes with soothing greenery. All these

elements combine together to transform Assam into a paradise of Adventure Sports.

Lovers of aerosports, watersports, mountaineering or land adventure sports would get a

lot in Assam. Among all Adventure Sports in Assam, travellers mostly indulge in the

activities like river rafting and trekking. Also the aerosports like para sailing and hand

gliding are becoming popular among the visitors in Assam.

Politics of Assam

he political structure of Assam in India is headed by the ceremonial post of the Governor.

He is assisted by a council of ministers, headed by the Chief Minister, who are members

of the Assam Assembly. In recent years the Governor has become more powerful,

especially because the last two Governors have been ex-Army generals and the Army is

entrusted with anti-insurgency operations against ULFA and other armed groups.

Assembly

The Assam legislative structure is unicameral and consists of the 126-member Assam

Assembly. Members are elected for a period of 5 years. The Assam Assembly is presided

over by the Speaker, who is generally a member of the ruling party.

In 1990, however, Assam was put under direct central government rule.

Political Parties

(Congress) - 79

Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) - 22

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - 12

Assam United Democratic Front (AUDF) - 9

Autonomous State Demand Committee (ASDC) - 1

Bodoland People's Front (BPF) -1

Bodo People's Progressive Front (BPPF) -11

Communist Party of India (CPI)

Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) - 1

Asom Gana Parishad (Progressive) (AGPP)

Purbanchaliya Loka Parishad (PLP)

Trinamul Gana Parishad (TGP)

The Congress had been in power in Assam since Indian independence in 1947 till 1978

when a Bhartiya Janata Party government came to power. This government did not last

for 2 years, and Congress came back to power and ruled till 1985 when AGP, the party of

activists from the Assam Movement came to power. Since 1985, the Congress and AGP

have alternatively been in power. In the April 2006 elections the Congress party retained

power, the first time a party did so since 1972.

DRESSES OF ASSAM

CONCLUSION

I learnt a lot about the country Assam, history and culture.

Assam is the country that claims very poor, literature,

simple life, an extraordinary diversity of landscapes etc.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Books

History of Assam

INTERNET SITES

Google.co.in

Assamhistory.com