Important Assamese Books & Authors for APSC & Assam Exams

List of Important Assamese Books & Authors for APSC & Assam Exams.

List of Assamese Books and Authors is important for competitive exams like APSC and Assam Govt job exams.

Books Authors Awards
Bedonar Ulka Ambikagiri Ray Choudhury  
Asamiya Lorar Mitra Anundoram Dhekial Phukon  
  • Kanchan
  • Sahebpurar Barasun
  • Hriday Ek Bigyapan
  • Iyat Akhon Aranya Ashil
Anuradha Sharma Pujari Won Sahitya Academy Award for Iyat Akhon Aranya Ashil
Baghe Tapur Rati Apurba Sarma Won Sahitya Academy Award for Baghe Tapur Rati
Asirbadar Rang Arun Sarma Won Sahitya Academy Award for Asirbadar Rang
Mariam Astin Athava Hira Barua Arupa Patangia Kalita  
Congressor Kanchiali Rodot Benudhar Sarma  
  • Antarip
  • Jiban Britta
  • Ramyabhumi
  • Srinkhal
  • Sendur
  • Moromor Deuta
  • Morom
  • Ai Bondoror Abeli
  • Jiban Rekha
Bhabendra Nath Saikia Won Sahitya Academy Award for Srinkhal
Jibanar Batot Bina Barua  
  • Iyaruingam
  • Mrityunjoy
Birendra Kumar Bhattacharya Won Sahiya Academy Award for Iyaruingam & Won Jnanpith Award for Mrityunjoy
  • Asomar Lok Sanskriti
  • Jibanar Batot
  • Seuji Pator Kahini
Birinchi Kumar Barua Won Sahitya Academy Award for Asomar Lok Sanskriti
Patkair Ipare Mor Des Chandana Goswami Won Sahitya Academy Award for Patkair Ipare Mur Desh
Pratima Chandrakumar Agarwala  
Maharathi Chandraprasad Saikia Won Sahitya Academy Award for Maharathi
Sagar Dekhisa Debakanta Barua  
  • Anya Jug Anya Purush
  • Kalpurush
  • Jangama
Debendra Nath Acharya Won Sahitya Academy Award for Jangam
Katha Ratnakar Dhruvajyoti Bora  
Hemkosh Hemchandra Barua  
Sugandhi Pakhila, Saichar Pathar Manuh Hiren Bhattacharya Won Sahitya Academy Award for Saichar Pathar Manuh
Ajir Manuh, Ayeto Jiban, Ajir Manuh, Hitesh Deka  
  • Atmanusandhan
  • Pita Putra
  • Dhumuha aru Ramdhenu
  • Saudor Puteke Nao Meli Jai
  • Subala
  • Halodhiya Charaiye Baodhan Khai
Homen Bargohain Won Sahitya Academy Award for Pita Putra
Banphul Jatindra Nath Duara  
Dawar Aru Nai, Prithivir Akhukh Jogesh Das Won Sahitya Academy Award for Prithivir Akhukh
Asanta Prahar, Asimat Jar Heral Seema Kanchan Barua  
  • Gonga Chilonir Pakhi
  • Patal Bhairobi
  • Kayakalpa
Lakshminandan Bora Won Sahitya Academy Award for Patal Bhairobi, Awarded Saraswati Samman for Kayakalpa
  • Padum Kunwori
  • Kadam Kali
  • Kehokoli
  • Mur Jiban Sowaran
  • Litikai
  • Burhi Aair Sadhu
Lakshminath Bezbarua  
Manuh Bichari Lakshyadhar Choudhury  
Namghosa Madhavdev  
Upala Nadir Dore Mahendra Bora  
  • Kathanibari Ghat
  • Adhani Mahir Hahi
  • Rati Phula Phool
Mahim Bora Won Sahitya Academy Award for Adhani Mahir Hahi
  • Aadha Lekha Dostavej
  • Datal Hatir Uiye Khowa Howdah
  • Mamore Dhora Tarowal aru Dukhon Upanyas
Mamoni Raisom Goswami Won Sahitya Academy Award for Mamore Dhora Tarowal aru Dukhon Upanyas
  • Kokadeutar Har
  • Garama Kunwori
  • Mur aru Prihivir
  • He Aranya He Mahanagar
Nabakanta Barua Won Sahitya Academy Award for Kokadeutar Har
  • Andharat Nijor Mukh
  • Mitabhash
Nagen Saikia Won Sahitya Academy Award for Andharat Nijor Mukh
  • Alakananda
  • Sandhiyar Sur
Nalinibala Devi Won Sahitya Academy Award for Alakananda
  • Devi
  • Surya
  • Sudirgha Din aru Ritu
Nirmal Prabha Bardoloi Won Sahitya Academy Award for Sudirgha Din aru Ritu
  • Abhijatri
  • Sei Nadi Nirabadhi
Nirupama Borgohain Won Sahitya Academy Award for Abhijatri
Shiraj Phani Sarma  
Anuradhar Dekh Phanindra Kumar Dev Choudhury  
  • Kesa Pator Koponi
  • Seuji Pator Kahini
Prafulla Dutta Goswami  
  • Dandua Droh
  • Manomoti
  • Miri Jiyori
  • Rahdoi Ligiri
Rajanikanta Bardoloi  
  • Deo Langkhui
  • Makam
  • Abirata Jatra
  • Papiya Torar Sadhu
  • Mayabritta
Rita Choudhury Won Sahitya Academy Award for Deo Langkhui
Kirtan Sankardev  
Sarathi Satyanath Bora  
  • Ahat Daba
  • Golam
  • Asanta Electron
Saurav Kumar Chaliha Won Sahitya Academy Award for Golam
  • Madhupur Bahudur
  • Anusandhan
Silabhadra Won Sahiyta Academy Award for Madhupur Bahudur
Satsari Asom Buranji Surya Kumar Bhuyan  
  • Aghari Atmar Kahini
  • Surujmukhir Swapna
  • Dhanya Nara Tanu Val
  • Ruptirthar Jatri
Syed Abdul Malik Won Sahitya Academy Award for Aghari Atmar Kahini
Mouno Oth Mukhar Hriday Yese Dorjee Thongchi Won Sahitya Academy Award for Mouno Oth Mukhar Hriday

Assam Study Notes                            |                          Assam Art & Culture Notes

State Symbols Of Assam: Important Notes for Competitive Exams

State Symbols

The following are the accredited State symbols of Assam:

Category

English Term

Assamese Term

State Song

O my dearest country

O Mur Apunar Dekh

State Motto

Hail mother Assam

Joi Aai Axom

State Seal

Government of Assam

Axom sorkar

State Language

Assamese

Axomiya

State Literary Society

Assam Literary Society

Axom Xahityo Xobha

State Festival

Bihu

Bihu

State Dance

Bihu Dance

Bihu nas

State Flower

Foxtail Orchids

Kopou phul

State Tree

Dipterocarpus macrocarpus

Hollong

State Animal

One-horned rhinoceros

Gor

State Bird

White-winged wood duck

Deo haah

Assam’s Architectural Heritage (Assam History & Art Notes)

Assam’s Architectural Heritage (Assam History & Art Notes)

Assam Art & Culture Notes

Architectural remains belonging to periods from early medieval days can be found in scattered historic ruins and ancient temples, in many places of Assam, including Tezpur, Bongaigaon, Guwahati, Sivasagar, Hajo, Goalpara, Nagaon, Golaghat etc. Assam’s historical architecture is greatly influenced by its cultural contact with adjacent regions of present-day Bangladesh and Burma, yet maintaining its firm cultural relation with mainland India. The architectural heritage of Assam can be easily perceived when seen through the lens of how various dynasties ruled over the land of Assam. There are literary and epigraphic records referring to architectural activities related to the building of secular and religious buildings in Pre-Ahom Assam.

The Kalika Purana mentions some important cities of ancient Assam. Pragjyotishapura which is termed as giri-durga by the Kalika Purana. The Bhagavata Purana also describes the city as being inaccessible due to its strong defense, both by nature and man. Other cities mentioned by Kalika Purana are- Alaka, Chandravati, Bhogavati, Varasana and Sonitapura.

Architecture in Pre-Ahom Period

The earliest evidence of architecture in Assam dates back to the Gupta Period, during the rule of the Varman dynasty in Kamarupa. The Gupta idiom is visible in most of the architectural works belonging to the period of the Varmans as the kingdom of Kamarupa shared a close proximity with the Gupta mainland, especially the western most part of the kingdom of Kamarupa. Buildings with exquisite Gupta carvings have been found in the neighbourhood of Guwahati and Tezpur. 

 

Da-Parbatia, an ancient village near Tezpur has ruins of two ancient temples, one belonging to the 5th or 6th century, on which another temple was constructed during the Ãhom rule. Amidst the lush greenery and the snow-capped Himalayas, the temple ruins show a square-shaped Garbhagriha (sanctum) while the mandap (outer gallery) is rectangular. The site is a major attraction with a well depicted Hellenistic style of sculptures and figurines that resemble Gupta style.

From almost the beginning of the Varman dynasty in the 5th century to the end of the Salastambha dynasty in the 10th century, the architectural remains can be traced in and around Tezpur. Another historical marvel from the Salasthamba period is the Rock-cut Caves in Bongaigaon. The five rock-cut caves have a brick and mud masonry made platform, which was built during a later period. The art and architecture of the caves is an exemplary example of the kind that was practiced during the time. Although not much is known about these caves, one of the best preserved caves has a length of 1.90 meters and comes with a rounded verandah with a flight of steps, unlike the other caves.

The Bargaon Inscription mentions another fortress city named Durjaya or Sri Durjaya which points to its invincible defense power. The Nagaon grant of Balavarman mentions that king Vanamala had erected a palace both aesthetically beautiful and functionally efficient.

Hieun Tsang in the 7th century mentioned about some hundred of deva temples in Kamarupa. The Yogini Tantra mentions the sacred tirtha of Apunarbhava which was adorned by several temples. The Umachal rock inscription is the earliest epigraphic record to mention about a rock cut shrine dedicated to lord Balabhadrasvamin. Tezpur grant of Vanamala refers to the rebuilding of the Hatakasulin temple. The Gachtal grant of Gopala refers to king Indrapala as having constructed the white washed temples of Sambhu.There are references to religious establishment under Buddhism and Jainism. Initiated by the Varmans of Kamarupa (4th to 7th century) architectural activities continued to develop and prosper. It had similarities with the Imperial Guptas as they both patronized Brahmanical culture. The architectural activities continued during the times of the Salastambhas and the Palas and by the second half of the 12th century, it had almost passed into obscurity.

Architecture in Ahom Period

Ahoms established their cultural and economic stability in the region for over six centuries, which can be seen in their monuments in the town of Sivasagar. The town has over 170 tanks, depicting a typical style of architecture. The most famous heritage sites of Assam, Kareng Ghar, and Talatal Ghar are historical treasures of this period. In the former capital Rangpur, Swargeo Rudra Singha built a palace from organic bricks, which was later further constructed into a seven-story palace by his successor Rajeshwara; the three ground storeys are known as ‘Talatal Ghar’ while the rest four-storey structure is called ‘Kareng Ghar’. Another construction by King Swargdeo is a remarkable two-storey structure of the Ahom period, called Rang Ghar. It is a royal sports pavilion also used for cultural programs and to watch the traditional ‘bull-fights’. The main entrance has two stone carved crocodiles while the interiors are decorated with magnificent sculptures.

In this second phase of temple architecture, inclination towards Hinduism was observed with the erection of Hindu temples, especially devoted to Goddess Durga. Subsequently temple architecture adopted the “Nilãcala type” in the construction of Jai Dol. Though Islamic influence is seen, the indigenous do-chala typed gained prominence. The style reached its zenith during the period of Siva Singha, after the construction of the tallest historical monument in Assam, the Siva Temple at Sivasagar. Like the pre-Ãhom period, the temples of this period also have an Indo-Aryan influence, consisting of Garbhagriha, Vimana, Sikhara, and Mandap.

Of the secular structure, tanks excavated during the Ahom period is an outstanding example. Most of the tanks are associated with kings. Excavation of tanks was considered the highest act of piety and was popularly known as sagar. Besides the tanks, other secular structures were the ramparts, barricades, road-cum-bunds and others. 

The Maidams are another architectural wonder credited to the Ahoms. These are burial mounds, which appear hemispherical in shape from the exterior and at the same time they vary in size. The size of the maidam depends on the power, status and resources of the deceased person. The vault inside the maidam holds the mortal remains of the dead.

Ahom architecture reached its zenith during the reign of Siva Singha. His projects at Gaurisagar and Sibsagar produced the largest edifices of the period. The Gaurisagar tank was excavated and also laid the construction of three temples with independent boundary with a central alignment. The three temples were consecrated to Devi, Siva and Visnu. The largest and finest of the 3 temple is the Devi temple which can claim to be the first temple of nagara style built in brick. The Devi daul consisted of a nagara style type having a pancaratna Vastupurusamandala. It has an antarala and a spacious mandapa of the Assamese do chala type. The Siva temple and the Visnu temple are a nilacala type of structure.

Islamic influence on Architecture

In the western parts of Assam, Mughal advances are marked by three Muslim monuments: Rangamati mosque near Gauripur, Pach Piran Dargah, and Mirijumlar Masjid. Architecture of Assam has the greatest influence from the Indo-Aryan style of architecture that was predominant since the pre-Ãhom period. However, due to the Mughal rule in mainland India, the religious buildings of late medieval Assam highlight the Islamic style influence. The Hindu temples were designed using Saracenic principles by masons experienced in Islamic architecture. 

Some of the most noteworthy secular building architecture are three monuments that were built during the Ãhom period- the Rang Ghar, the Talatal Ghar, and the Kareng Ghar. The Rang Ghar is built in Islamic style for the members of the then royal family. However, the Talatal Ghar is built in the Mughal style and the Kareng Ghar is built in the South-Asiatic style.

Architecture in Koch Dynasty

During the reign of King Naranãrãyana and his brother Chilãrãi, the dynasty reached its epitome of glory. The king built the Kamakhya temple on Nilachal hill, in 1565 AD over ruins that date back to even before the pre-Ãhom period. The ‘Nilachala style’ originated from this temple, which used a more Islamic style ignoring the IndoAryan style of architecture.

Architecture in Jayantia and Kachari Dynasty

The Kacharis had its first capital in Dimapur and then later shifted to Maibong and Khaspur. The monuments, monolithic hut, and rock-cut temples of these days resemble a typical Bengal do-chala structure. The Kachari architecture grew heavily under Bengal’s influence and ended with the decline of the Kachari rule. The Kachari Fort built during this time depicts the noteworthy architecture and a mix of Non-Aryan and Hinduism culture.

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Classical and Folk Dances of Assam – Assam Art & Culture Notes

Classical and Folk Dances of Assam (Assam Art & Culture) Notes for APSC & Govt job Exams

Traditional Dances of Assam

Assam Art, Culture & Crafts - Assam Exam

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Classical and Folk Dances of Assam

Assam state is home to a number of indigenous tribes and races, each of which has its own fairs and festivals. This has led to the propagation of innumerous dance forms throughout the region. The different dance forms in the state can be broadly categorized under two headings, classical dances and folk dances.

Classical Dances of Assam

Bhaona – This dance form is basically performed in the village Namghars and Satras, in order to promote the Vaishnavite culture in Assam. It is actually a theatrical depiction of the one-act play Ankiya Nat, initiated by Sankardeva. An integral part of the dance is the Sutradhara, who recites the slokas, sings, dances and explains the various stages of Bhaona in detail. Another form of dance included in Bhaona is the Natuwa or Cali dance. One of the subdivisions of this dance form is the Hajowaliya, which is basically a woman’s dance and is the combination of both Tandava and Lasya.

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Oja Pali – Oja- Pali is a form of classical dance, representing the rich tradition and cultural heritage of Assam. Oja and Pali are actually a group of chorus singers and dancers, with Oja as the leader and Palis as his assistants. A total of three or four Palis may be required for the dance and the principal one among them is called the Daina Pali. Apart from dancing, they also sing and play small cymbals, relating stories from the Epics and the Puranas.

Satriya Nritya – Satriya dance is a renowned classical dance of the state of Assam and was introduced by Srimanta Shankardev to propagate the religion of Vaishnavism. This form of dance is one of the eight principal classical dance forms of India and has a great cultural significance in the social scenario of the state.

Folk Dances of Assam

Bihu Dance – This is the most popular folk dance of Assam, it is related to the Bihu festival, which is celebrated with much pomp and glory throughout the state. The festival is mainly a celebration of the different phases of cultivation and is observed by all the Assamese, irrespective of their caste and creed.

Jumur Nach – This is a typical folk dance performed by the tea community in the state, locally called ‘Chah Baganar Jumur Nach’ or the Jumur dance of tea garden. Boys and girls hold each other’s waist and dance to the tunes of the Jumur dance, with exact precision of foot work. Watching them sway to the tunes of the song is indeed a very pleasant experience.

Ali Ai Ligang dance – The Mishing community of Assam performs a dance while making an offering to their deities during the Ali Ai Ligang festival. This form of dance is seen only in the north-eastern parts of the state, namely Sonitpur and Lakhimpur.

Deodhani – Deodhani is a dance form associated with the worship of the snake goddess Manasa. This dance is performed by a girl who, in a trance-like inspired state, goes on dancing to the beats of the Ciphung (flute) and the Kham (drum). At one stage of the dance, she even takes a sword and a shield performing a virile war dance, honoring various gods and goddesses, like Shiva, Lakshmi etc.

Barpeta’s Bhortal Nritya – This form of dance is mainly a propagation of the Sankari culture of Assam and was originally developed by the well known Satriya artist, Narahari Burha Bhakat.

Dhuliya and Bhawariya – This is basically a form of theatrical performance, using masks, drums and cymbals.

Bodo’s Bagurumba – This is one of the best folk dances performed by the Bodo community of Assam. A number of Bodo girls, dressed in colorful apparels, dance to the tune of the tribe’s traditional musical instruments, with slow steps and outstretched hands.

Khamba Lim – This is a typical folk dance of Assam, performed by two groups of men and women, who stand in two rows.

Important Books for Assam General Knowledge 
  Economy of Assam
  Environment & Ecology
  Geography of Assam
  History of Britain
  Assam – Art & Culture
  History of Assam – Ahom and British Period
  History of Assam – Ancient Period

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Assam Current Affairs – August 28-31, 2022

Assam & NE Current Affairs & GK – August 28-31, 2022

( Covers all important Current Affairs & GK topics for the August 28-31, 2022)

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Current Affairs GK & Quiz Monthly – July 2022

Assam Current Affairs and GK Quiz – Set 316: July 2022, Week 4 

August 28-31, 2022

All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2021-2022 begins

The 50th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2021-2022 began at Iboyama Shumang Leela Shanglen in Palace Compound, Imphal. 

During the festival, the Governor also distributed medals to the winners of 49th All Manipur Shumang Leela Festival 2020-21.

Shumang Leela is a traditional form of theatre in Manipur and the roles of female artists are all played by male actors and male characters are played by female artists in case of female theatre groups.

Shumang Leela Groups of the early stage attempted to preserve and promote humanism, tolerance, confidence, devotion, truth and justice through their performances.

In the present day Shumang Leelas have been trying to focus on the issues of moral values, unity and integrity. It has also been trying to strengthen the bond of brotherhood and friendship among various communities in the State.


IIT Guwahati developed a new method for making sugar substitute “Xylitol”

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have developed an ultrasound-assisted fermentation method to produce a safe sugar substitute called ‘Xylitol’ from sugarcane bagasse (the residue left after crushing of sugarcane). 

This method overcomes the operational limitations of chemical methods of synthesis and the time delays associated with conventional fermentation.

The IIT Guwahati researchers used two approaches to overcome the two problems: 

First, they used sugarcane bagasse, the waste fibrous material produced after extracting juice from sugarcane, as the raw material. This overcomes the cost limitations of current xylitol synthesis methods and provides a method to upcycle a waste product.

Secondly, they used a new type of fermentation process wherein, the microbe-induced synthesis of xylitol is hastened by the application of ultrasound waves.

The use of ultrasound during the fermentation process not only reduced the time of fermentation to 15 hours, but also increased the yield of the product by almost 20%. 

There has been an increase in the use of safe alternative sweeteners as awareness of the negative effects of white sugar (sucrose) on individuals with diabetes and general health has grown. 

A sugar alcohol generated from plants called xylitol may have anti-obesogenic and anti-diabetic properties in addition to being a mild prebiotic and guarding teeth against caries.


Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India’s first earthquake memorial

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated India’s first earthquake memorial, named Smruti Van at Bhuj in Gujarat. 

Smruti Van is a unique memorial carrying the names of more than 12 thousand people who lost their lives in the devastating earthquake that struck here in January 2001.

The memorial is spread across 470 acres of land and is built atop Bhujiyo hill. It celebrates the spirit of resilience in the wake of the death of nearly 13,000 people during the earthquake on January 26, 2001, which had its epicentre in Bhuj. Bhujio Hill was a military base for former rulers of the Kutch region.

The museum will showcase the Harappan civilisation of this region, scientific information regarding earthquakes, Gujarat’s culture, science behind cyclones and Kutch’s success story after the earthquake. 


Linthoi Chanambam wins gold medal at the World Cadet Judo Championship 

Linthoi Chanambam became the first Indian to win a gold medal at the World Cadet Judo Championship 2022. She won the gold medal in the women’s -57kg category in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

The 16-year-old Linthoi Chanambam is from Manipur. Shedefeated Brazil’s Reis Bianca 1-0 by Waza-ari-a throw to win the gold at the world championships in Sarajevo.

Linthoi’s  coach Mamuka Kizilashvili believes that Linthoi’s gold-winning feat is not only a historic achievement but could be a sign of things to come for the sport of Judo in India.


India successfully test-fires Indian Navy’s VL-SRSAM Missile System

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Navy successfully flight-tested the indigenously designed and developed Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur off the coast of Odisha.

About VL-SRSAM 

  • The missile has been specially designed by DRDO using four short-span long-chord cruciform wings that offer aerodynamic stability. 
  • The Missile system has been developed as a quick reaction surface-to-air missile for the Indian Navy. 
  • The range of this missile system is capable of hitting targets across 40 to 50 km range at an altitude of about 15 km. 
  • It is a canisterised system and each missile is stored and operated from specific compartments, making its transport and storage easier.
  • The missile can be used for neutralizing various aerial threats at medium and close ranges and are also capable of intercepting sea-skimming fighter jets and missiles that are used to avoid being detected by radar. 
  • The new missile system is being developed to replace the existing Barak 1 surface-to-air missile system which is being used on Naval Ships by the Indian Navy. 

Gautam Adani becomes world’s third-richest person

Gautam Adani has now become the world’s third-richest person. It’s the first time an Asian has broken into the top-3 of the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. 

With a net worth of $137.4 billion, he is now just behind Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos in the global ranking.

Elon Musk has a net worth of $251 billion, while Jeff Bezos has a total worth of $153 billion. Gautam Adani, co-founder and chairman of the Adani Group, has left behind the ranking business magnate Bernard Arnault.

State Symbols of Assam (Assam Art & Culture APSC Notes)

State Symbols of Assam  – Assam Art & Culture APSC Notes

Assam Art, Culture & Crafts - Assam Exam

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Assam’s official State symbols represent the cultural heritage and natural treasures of Assam. 

The following are the accredited State symbols of Assam:

Category

English Term

Assamese Term

State Song

O my dearest country

O Mur Apunar Dekh

State Motto

Hail mother Assam

Joi Aai Axom

State Language

Assamese

Axomiya

State Literary Society

Assam Literary Society

Axom Xahityo Xobha

State Festival

Bihu

Bihu

State Dance

Bihu Dance

Bihu nas

State Flower

Foxtail Orchids

Kopou phul

State Tree

Scientific Name: Dipterocarpus

macrocarpus

Hollong

State Animal

One-horned rhinoceros

Gor

State Bird

White-winged wood duck

Deo haah

 

City animal of Guwahati - Gangetic river dolphin.

Guwahati became the first city in India to have its own city animal with the district administration declaring the Gangetic river dolphin as the mascot.

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Literary works of Sankardev (Assam Art & Culture) – APSC Exam Notes

Literary works of Sankardev (Assam Art & Culture) Notes for APSC, UPSC and State Exams

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Assam Art, Culture & Crafts - Assam Exam

 

Literary works of Sankardev

Sankardev written a large body of literary works.  He opened the floodgates and inspired others like Madhavdev to carry on. His language is lucid, his verses lilting, and he infused bhakti into everything he wrote. He began attending Mahendra Kandali’s tol at the age of 12 and soon wrote his first verses karatala-kamala

His magnum opus is Kirtana-ghosha, a work so popular that even today it is found in many household in Assam. It contains narrative verses glorifying Krishna meant for community singing.

Poetic works (kavya)
  • Kirtana-ghosha
  • Harischandra-upakhyana
  • Rukmini-harana
  • Ajamilopakhyana
  • Bali-chalana
  • Kurukshetra-yatra
  • Gopi-uddhava-samvada
  • Amrita-manthana
  • Krishna-prayana-pandava-niryana
  • Kamajaya
  • Parijat-haran
  • Kaliya-daman
  • Ram-vijay

 

Bhakti Theory
  • Bhakati-pradipa
  • Anadi-patana
  • Nimi-navasiddha-samvada
  • Bhakti Ratnakara (in Sanskrit)
  • Gunamala

Transliteration

  • Bhagavata (Book VI, VIII, I, II, VII, X, XI, XII, IX, X, XI & XII)
  • Ramayana (Uttarakanda, supplemental to Madhav Kandali’s Saptakanda Ramayana)
Drama (Ankia Nat)
  • Cihna Yatra
  • Patni-prasada
  • Janma-jatra
  • Kangsa-badha
  • Keli-gopala
  • Srirama-vijaya

Sankardev was the fountainhead of the Ankiya naat. His Cihna Yatra is regarded as one of the first open-air theatrical performances in the world.


Songs
  • Borgeet – these are devotional songs, set to music and sung in various raga styles. The songs themselves are written in the ‘Brajavali’ language.
  • Bhatima
  • Deva bhatima
  • Naat bhatima
  • Raja bhatima

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Ekasarana Dharma (Assam Art & Culture) – APSC Exam Notes

Ekasarana Dharma (Assam Art & Culture) Notes for APSC, UPSC and State Exams

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Assam Art, Culture & Crafts - Assam Exam

 

Ekasarana Dharma is a neo-Vaishanavite religion propagated by Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th-16th century in the Indian state of Assam. It is focused on devotion (bhakti) to Sril Krishna in the form of congregational listening and singing his name and deeds.

The simple and accessible religion attracted already Hinduized as well as non-Hindu populations into its egalitarian fold. The neophytes continue to be inducted into the faith via an initiation ceremony called xoron-lowa, usually conducted by Mahantas who were heads of monastic institutions called Sattras who generally draw apostolic lineage from Sankardev.

Institutions propagating Eka Sarana like sattra (monasteries) and village Namghar (prayer houses), had profound influence in the evolution of the social makeup of Assam. The artistic creations emanating from this movement led to engendering of new forms of literature, music (Borgeets), theatre (Ankia Naat) and dance (Sattriya dance).

The central religious text of this religion is Bhagavat of Sankardeva, which was rendered from the Sanskrit Bhagavata Purana by Srimanta Sankardeva and other luminaries of the Eka Sarana school. This book is supplemented by the books of songs for congregational singing: Kirtan Ghoxa by Sankardeva and Naam Ghoxa and Ratnavali by Madhabdev, written in the Assamese language.

The religion is also called Mahapuruxiya because it is based on the worship of the Mahapurux, an epithet of the supreme spiritual personality in the Bhagavata and its adherents are often called Mahapuruxia, Sankari etc. Sankardeva and Madhabdev are the principal preceptors of the religion.

Though Ekasarana acknowledges the impersonal (nirguna) god, it identifies the personal (saguna) one as worshipful which it identifies in the Bhagavad-Puranic Narayana.

The cari vastu or the Four Principles defined this religious system are

  1. Naam — the chanting and singing the name and the qualities of God. In general, only four names are most important: rama-krishna-narayana-hari
  2. Deva — worship of a single God, that is Krishna.
  3. Guru — reverence of a Guru, or Spiritual Preceptor.
  4. Bhakat — the association or the congregation of devotees

Sankardev defined the first, second and fourth of these, whereas Madhavdev introduced the third while accepting Sankardev as the guru for himself and for all others who accepted his faith. The four principles are revealed and their meaning explained at the time of xonron-lowa.

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Festivals of Assam (Assam Art & Culture) – APSC Exam Notes

Festivals of Assam (Assam Art & Culture) Notes for APSC, UPSC and State Exams

 

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Assam is a land of large number of fairs and festivals. Most of the festivals celebrated in Assam characterize the spirit of accommodation and togetherness in the diverse beliefs of the numerous tribes and races residing there. Each festival is
celebrated with equal passion and fervor, thus reflecting the lifestyle and tradition of the people of Assam.

Bihu Festival

The most important and enchanting festival of Assam is Bihu. The Bihu is celebrated three times a year:

  1. Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu which augurs the wish for a good harvest because this is the time when farmers start sowing. It the most popular Bihu celebrates the onset of the Assamese New Year in mid-April) and the coming of Spring. This marks the first day of the Hindu solar calendar.
  2. Kongali Bihu or Kaati Bihu which is observed in mid-October to mark the cutting and binding of grains, and
  3. Bhogali Bihu or Magh Bihu which marks the season of harvesting of grains. mid-January. Since the granaries are full, there is a lot of feasting and eating during this period.

The festival is mainly a celebration of the different phases of cultivation and is observed by all Assamese people irrespective of caste, creed, religion, faith and belief.

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Ambubachi Fair

It is the most important festival of Kamakhya temple and is held every year during monsoon (mid-June). It is a ritual of austerities celebrated with ‘Tantric rites’. During Ambubashi the doors of the temple remain closed for three days. It is believed that the earth becomes impure for three days. During this time no farming work is undertaken.

Ambubachi mela is held at the Kamakhya temple, , atop Nilachal Hil, after being closed for the afore-mentioned three days. On the fourth day only the devotees are allowed to enter inside the temple for worship. Thousands of devotees from all over the country and abroad visit this mela.

 

Baishagu

This festival is celebrated in Assam by the tribes of Bodo and Kachari during the spring season, at the start of the Assamese New Year. Famous for its myriad colours and merriment, it is the most cherished festival of the Bodo tribe. The Bodos also celebrate it as a springtime festival at the advent of the new year. In this festival of Baishagu many traditional musical instruments are used. Such music instruments are: Khawbang, Jotha, Gogona, Siphung, Kham etc.

It is a two-day festival and is spent amidst fun and gaiety. The first day begins with the worship of cows. The next day corresponds with the 1st day of the Assamese Bohag month. Lord Shiva (Bathou in native terms) is worshipped and offerings like rice beer and chicken are given to Him. At the end of this Baishagu Festival of Assam the Assamese people gather together in a specified place for a community prayer which is called as “Garjasali” in Assamese language.

 

Me-Dum-Me-Phi

Me-Dum-Me-Phi is the most important Ahom festival. It is ancestor worship festival which is observed by the whole Ahom community community of Tai origin. This is performed on the 31st of January and helps to develop social contacts and community feelings among the Ahoms.

It is believed that if Me-Dum-Me-Fi is not celebrated in the customary way, the deities will be displeased and consequently there will be crisis in the State like political rivalry and infighting, increased activities of militancy, natural upheavals like floods and earthquakes resulting in loss of human lives and property. 

 

Ali- Ai- Ligang

Ali-Aye-Ligang is a spring festival associated with agriculture, specially with the beginning of the Ahu paddy cultivation. It is celebrated by the indigenous Mising or Mishing tribe of Assam in the month of ‘Ginmur Polo’ (February-March).

The festival marks onset of sowing seeds. The name of the festival is made up of three terms, ‘Ali’, legumes, ‘Aye’, seed and ‘Ligang’, to sow.

A popular dance is performed by the young Mising people which is known as Gumrag. This dance is performed by encircling the courtyard of the house of the villagers.

 

Baikho

Also called Khoksi Puja, is a spring time festival, celebrated by the indigenous Rabha community of Assam. The festival comes across as the worship of the Goddess of Wealth, known as ‘Baikho’ adored for her “ability to bring forth rains, abundant crops and health for the community.”

Bohaggiyo Bishu

The Deoris of Assam, one of the four divisions of the ‘Chutiyas’, observe this festival during the spring season. Derived from the Chutiya word ‘Bisu’ (Bi- extreme, Su- rejoicing), the festival is a continuous celebration of 7 days. It usually starts on a Wednesday, with Than Puja and there is buffalo sacrifice every fourth year.

The major attractions of the festival are the Deodhani dance and Husori (folk song). The Deodhani Nrityaforms the most important and significant part of the festival. ‘Husori’ or Carol Song party is the main attraction.

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Mising Agom Kebang (Assam Art & Culture Notes)

Mising Agom Kebang (MAK): APSC Study Materials & Notes
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Mising Agom Kebang

Mising Agom Kebang
  • The Mising Agom Kebang is the highest body of the Mising people.
  • It was established on 18 April 1972 in the district of Dhemaji, Assam.
  • It is a non-political voluntary organization, dedicated to the cause of preservation and development of Mising language and literature.
  • It has been registered as a ‘society’under the SOCIETIES REGISTRATION ACT, 1860, Govt of India
Genesis
  • Nahendra Padun, a research student at Gauhati University, and Prof. Tabu Taid, a lecturer in English at Cotton College, Guwahati, initiated to carrying the works of the Guwahati Mising Kebang at the level of the whole Mising community.
  • A meeting was organised at Disangmukh of Sibsagar district on April 17 and 18, 1972 and there a resolution was adopted to set up an organization named Mising Agom Kebang (MAK).
  • Tabu Ram Taid as its first president and Nahendra Padun as its first secretary.

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Activities
  • The MAK decided to adopt the Roman system of writing as the script for Mising language, with extensive modification as per the requirement of the phonemics of the Mising tribes.
  • MAK has also published various books and periodicals written in Mising language, mainly on Mising language, literature, and culture.
  • MAK also worked for the introduction of Mising language in the primary schools in Mising villages, and in 1985 the Assam government agreed to do so.

Headquarters – Karichuk in Dhemaji District.

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