They converge from all corners of the country to spend one weekend. A weekend that transports them to their beautiful homeland, when pride and patriotism takes over and moments of nostalgia creep in. A gathering that signifies unity and belongingness, where people connect, reconnect, spread love and cheer with their fellow citizens. Children perform and showcase their talent reminding grown - ups why they are so lovable. Adults relish ethnic cuisines and fine foods over non-stop chit-chat and copious amounts of tea. The evenings turn into a cultural extravagance involving song, dance and theatre. Well known Assamese artists are invited from India to dazzle the much excited, adrenalized crowd thus making it the most anticipated event of the year.
After 3 days of non-stop merry making at the annual Assam convention, people leave with renewed respect and appreciation for the place they call home. They are reminded of its beauty, the richness yet simplicity of its culture and history, its political turmoil, the never ending woes and uncertainties. Yet they depart with a strong sense of pride, their sense of responsibility to do something worthwhile for those in need becomes even more pronounced because they know very well that no matter how distanced they are from their beloved land, it is their duty, their privilege to ‘give back’ to the place that gave them their individuality, their sense of being.
2 comments:
Oh yeah absolutely...so well put!!
Having spent more than half my life outside Assam, I do tend to feel discconnected with a lot of things associated with the beloved land, many a time...but I am convinced now that these events play an extremely important role in bridging that disconnect that has this tendency of creeping in ever so often...
MAde me feel really nostalgic...papa,ma,aita ,koka,galatimes with extended family, school days, friends...those good old times essentially...as I read your post, was reminded of the Simon and Garfunkel song you so beautifully sang last time at your place...and I have this yearning in me to be "Homeward Bound" even if it's just for a little while...
Assam is so under-represented in our country's dialogue, I find myself wondering about it often and trying to seek more information. Could you point me to any books on the Assamese way of life? Non-fiction preferable, fiction would do as well.
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