Guwahati, January 31: The rich cultural mosaic of Northeast India came alive at
The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) on Friday as over 400 participants representing more
than 40 Janjati communities from all eight northeastern states gathered for the “Janjati
Sammelan.”
The Janjati Sammelan has been organised on the occasion of the Foundation
Day of the Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture (VKIC), Guwahati.
The inaugural session of the Janjati Sammelan was graced by Shri Narayan Chandra
Borkataky, Vice Chairman, State Innovation and Transformation Aayog, Assam, and former
Member of Parliament, as the Chief Guest.
In his address, Shri Borkataky emphasised the need to preserve indigenous knowledge systems and cultural heritage while integrating innovation and inclusive development for the Janjati communities of the region, according to a Press release.
Prof. Shiela Bora, Director, VKIC and Dean, Royal School of Humanities and Life Sciences,
RGU, delivered the welcome address, highlighting VKIC’s commitment to cultural
preservation and unity through diversity.
Dr. Joram Begi, eminent educationist and Chairman, VKIC, spoke on the rich customs and
traditions followed by the various Janjati communities of the Northeast. He underscored the
importance of social reformation while retaining the core cultural roots, values, and traditionsthat define indigenous identities.
A captivating community presentation by the Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh marked a
key highlight of the inaugural session, drawing appreciation from the audience for its
authenticity and cultural depth. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed byMs. Meera Kulkarni, Secretary, VKIC.
Reflecting VKIC’s guiding motto, “Culture Nurtures Unity,” the Janjati Sammelan witnessed
enthusiastic participation from Janjati communities across the Northeast. The event featuredexhibitions and sale of traditional handloom and handicrafts, ritual and cultural performances, and interactive dialogue sessions offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Participants adorned themselves in vibrant ethnic attire, representing communities such as
Bodo, Chutiya, Thengal, Karbi, Tiwa, Tai Ahom, Munda, Sawra, and Kharia from Assam;
Kuki from Manipur; Hajong from Meghalaya; Signpho, Apatani, Galo, Tagin, Tai Khamti,
Kaman & Taroan, Sherdukpen, Tutsa, and Tangsa from Arunachal Pradesh; and Tripura
Hoda, Murasing Hoda, Debbarma, Reang Hoda, and Kala Hoda from Tripura, among others.
The Janjati Sammelan stood as a powerful celebration of unity in diversity, reinforcing the
cultural bonds that define Northeast India.
