Ethnic groups are integral to the rich cultural fabric of Assam. These diverse communities have contributed significantly over the centuries to the prosperity of the State. Their unique traditions, art, and culture stand as symbols of harmony and unity.
To preserve this cultural wealth, the Government of Assam has launched the Cultural Mapping of Art & Ethnicity of Assam initiative. This project aims to systematically document and scientifically preserve the vibrant arts, traditions, and cultures of the State’s ethnic groups. Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra Society (SSKS) has been named as its nodal agency.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on December 12 at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati between SSKS and representatives from 12 prominent universities: Gauhati University, Dibrugarh University, Tezpur University, Assam University, Cotton University, Bodoland University, Madhabdev University, Assam Down Town University, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankardeva Viswavidyalaya, Royal Global University, Majuli University of Culture, and Pragjyotishpur University.
Cultural Affairs Minister of Assam, Bimal Bora, attended the signing ceremony and highlighted the significance of this initiative in his speech. He described the move as a transformative effort to preserve Assam’s cultural richness for future generations.
The Minister elaborated on the initiative, stating, “With over 200 ethnic tribes and communities, Assam boasts a rich cultural heritage. This cultural mapping project will document the heritage, traditions, and histories of these diverse groups, providing a comprehensive record that will be preserved for generations to come.”
He also emphasized the importance of preserving Assam’s cultural diversity in a modern format, stating, “Through this project, we will ensure the preservation of Assam’s culture, its diverse environment, and the cultural contents of all communities. The collected data will be stored in a state-of-the-art multimedia facility, accessible for future research and reuse by interested individuals and scholars.”
Terming it as a bold and pioneering initiative he wrote, “Assam stands as the only State in the nation creating a cultural map of its distinct art, wisdom, philosophy, and ethnicity, with the goal of preserving its rich cultural and traditional identity for future generations.”
Additional Chief Secretary, Culture, Government of Assam, B Kalyan Chakravarthy spoke of the economic and growth aspects of such an exercise. He stressed the urgency of this initiative and cautioned that without timely action, Assam could lose its invaluable cultural heritage.
Three committees have been constituted to oversee the project to ensure that every district of Assam is adequately represented. Minister Bora expressed his confidence that this project will not only preserve the cultural heritage but will also boost rural tourism and benefit younger generations.
SKSS Secretary Sudarshan Thakur echoed this sentiment on social media, explaining that the project will help preserve Assam’s socio-cultural heritage through field studies and data collection. Thakur also highlighted the connection between Assam’s economy and its cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of strengthening the economic foundation to support Assam’s traditions and customs.
The Minister meanwhile pointed out “Studies and Research on the subject will be done by these universities. Henceforth, the role of content experts will be very crucial to ensure the success of this project,”
Talking to Asom Barta, Paramananda Sonowal, the Registrar of Dibrugarh University, lauded the State Government for this far-sighted approach. “I am sure our progeny would feel indebted to us for preserving this invaluable heritage of their land,” he said.
