Dolly Kurmi, a vibrant young woman from Moheema Tea Estate in Golaghat, is eagerly awaiting November for a special reason. She will be performing in the grand Jhumoir, a special event to be organised by the Government of Assam to promote the traditional dance form of the tea tribe community.
“It feels amazing to know that, after Bihu, the Government of Assam is taking Jhumoir to the world stage. Tea tribe culture and traditions have been around for almost 200 years, and elevating them is a matter of immense pride,” Dolly told Asom Barta. She added, “Growing up amidst the lush tea gardens, Jhumoir has been a part of my life since childhood, with its rhythmic moves and captivating music holding a special place in my heart. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a representation and celebration of our cultural roots, which are still not known to many. This will inspire younger generations as well.”
From a young age, Dolly has been diligently practising Jhumoir under her parents’ guidance. “As an Adivasi girl, I feel honoured to showcase our traditional dance form,” she said.
Maitreye Chasa, a master trainer from Dibrugarh, is equally excited. “I am thrilled but also a bit nervous and I believe this will help to promote our community’s traditions around the world,” she told this reporter.
Meenakshi Das Nath, Director of Cultural Affairs, told this newsletter that the performance of Jhumoir is based on the recent announcement by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma that 8,000 artistes from 817 tea gardens across the State will perform together.
“An SOP was put in place for the event following discussion with Minister of Cultural Affairs Bimal Bora and Minister of Labour Welfare Sanjoy Kishan,” Nath said.
“Growing up amidst the lush tea gardens, Jhumoir has been a part of my life since childhood, with its rhythmic moves and captivating music holding a special place in my heart. This isn’t just a performance; it’s a representation and celebration of our cultural roots, which are still not known to many. This will inspire younger generations as well” -Dolly Kurmi
“As per the SOP, female performers should be aged between 15 and 35 years, while male performers should be between 15 and 40 years. Additionally, over 200 master trainers will be hired. In each of the 84 LACs, two master trainers will be appointed to train the performers,” Nath explained.
“All performers will receive skill-level certificates, which will benefit them in various ways. It will increase opportunities for exchange programmes, allowing Jhumoir performers to showcase their talents internationally and boost cultural tourism.”
Meanwhile, the Minister of Culture Bimal Bora posted in X, “In its sturdy commitment of preserving and promulgating Assam’s rich cultural diversity and heritage, Govt of Assam under the leadership of Hon’ble CM Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma dangoriya, a mega Jhumoir dance on the lines of the Guinness World Record breaking Bihu dance performance is all set to be showcased to the world. The Mega Jhumoir performance will be a perfect ode to the tea tribe community that has significantly impacted the socio-cultural and economic landscape of the state ever since the commercial production of tea two centuries ago.”
Bhagirath Karan, a noted Jhumoir expert and core committee member, told this reporter that Jhumoir has become a cherished part of Assamese culture as well. Organising this mega Jhumoir with thousands of nasonis (dancers) and dhuliyas is a commendable initiative.”
Reflecting on his selection, Karan said, “My role on the expert committee is based on my contributions to the socio-economic uplift of the community.”
