The music of Assam, a state in the northeastern part of India, is a vibrant and diverse mosaic that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. With its roots stretching deep into the history and traditions of its various communities, Assamese music encompasses a wide range of styles, from traditional folk to modern beats, each narrating the stories, emotions, and the way of life of the Assamese people.
Historical Overview
The history of Assamese music is as old as the history of the land itself. It has evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures and traditions that have flourished in the region. The earliest forms of Assamese music can be traced back to the chants and hymns associated with the Sankardeva movement in the 15th and 16th centuries. Srimanta Sankardeva, a saint-scholar, and a cultural icon, introduced the ‘Borgeet,’ devotional songs, and ‘Ankiya Naat’ (a form of one-act play accompanied by music), which have had a lasting impact on the Assamese cultural landscape.
Traditional Music Forms
- Bihu: The most celebrated folk music form in Assam is Bihu, associated with the Bihu festivals, which mark the Assamese New Year and the agricultural seasons. There are three Bihu festivals – Rongali, Bhogali, and Kongali – each accompanied by its distinctive form of music and dance. Bihu songs, characterized by lively rhythms and spontaneous lyrics, express themes of love, nature, and social life.
- Borgeet: Borgeet are devotional songs composed by Srimanta Sankardeva and his disciple Madhavdeva in the 15th and 16th centuries. These songs are a blend of classical and folk elements and are integral to the Neo-Vaishnavite culture of Assam. They are performed in a classical style, known as ‘Sattriya,’ which is also recognized as one of the classical dance forms of India.
- Jhumur: Jhumur is a traditional music form shared by the tea garden communities and the tribal people of Assam. It is primarily a dance form accompanied by songs that depict the life, work, and emotions of the tea garden workers and the tribal communities.
Instruments
Assamese music is characterized using various traditional musical instruments. The ‘Dhol,’ a type of drum, ‘Taals,’ cymbals, and the ‘Bansuri,’ a bamboo flute, are commonly used in Bihu performances. The ‘Khol,’ a clay drum, and ‘Harmonium’ are often used in the performance of Borgeet and other devotional songs.
Contemporary Music Scene
The contemporary music scene in Assam is a blend of traditional styles with modern influences. Assamese artists have successfully fused folk elements with genres like rock, pop, and hip hop, creating a unique sound that resonates with both the younger and older generations. Bhupen Hazarika, one of Assam’s most revered musicians, played a pivotal role in bringing Assamese music to a global audience through his compositions that beautifully integrated Assamese folk tunes with modern music elements.
The music of Assam is a testament to the state’s rich cultural heritage and its ability to evolve and embrace change while staying rooted in tradition. It plays a crucial role in the social and cultural life of the people, celebrating their joys, sorrows, and their profound connection with nature. As Assam continues to navigate the path of modernity, its music remains a cherished link to its past, a source of pride and identity for the Assamese people, and a gift of unparalleled beauty to the world of music.