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.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.

Map Of Assam
History of Assam
Geographical Profile of Assam
Climate of Assam
Best Places of Assam
Cuisine of Assam
Costume of Assam
Art and Craft Tourism
Monuments of Assam
Festivals of Assam
Jewellery in Assam
Sports of Assam
Politics of Assam
Dresses of Assam
Inspirational Dresses
Conclusion
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, Krishnas grandson.

The mighty BrahmaputraAssam'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
Sibsagar

North Cachar Hills

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 paleoriver; 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 subalpine 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

shouldnt 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 NeoVashnavite 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
Madhavadevas 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

The Thapona inside the Kirtan Ghar

CUISINE OF ASSAM

are

also

located.

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 elaboratethe 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 AssamYunnan 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 culturerelated 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 factorymade 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:

Bihu
The word Bihu is derived from visuvan that describes a
number of festivals in India.Rongali Bihu draws from
many different traditionsAustro-Asiatic, SinoBurmese and Indo-Aryanand is celebrated with
particular fervor.

Costume of Bihu Dancers

Dhoti, 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 PreAhom 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-devivre'.

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

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