A unique lecture and demonstration on the endangered folk songs Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet from the Darrang district of Assam was held at Panikhaiti, Guwahati. Organized by the Regional Centre, Guwahati of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), in collaboration with Assam Down Town University, the event aimed to shed light on these fading traditions.
Sh. Taun Azad Deka, a renowned folk artist empanelled with Akashvani, was the highlight of the event, enthralling the audience with his live performances of the two traditional songs. His lecture, delivered in a unique performance-cum-explanation format, delved into the cultural and historical significance of Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet. Deka explained that Chiya Geet is believed to have originated from Buddhist Charjya hymns. At the same time, Nangeli Geet was traditionally sung in agricultural fields, without instruments, as part of competitive entertainment between two groups. He underscored the urgent need for collective efforts to preserve these endangered cultural treasures.
Several notable figures, including Chief Guest Sh graced the event. Dulal Roy, a renowned playwright, theatre artist, and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee. Prof. Bandana Dutta, Dean of Studies at Assam Down Town University, attended as the Guest of Honour. Other dignitaries included Prof. Narayan Ch. Talukdar, Vice Chancellor of Assam Down Town University; Prof. Pranveer Singh, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the university; Dr. Sapam Ranabir Singh, Regional Director of IGNCA, Regional Centre Guwahati; Sh. Utpal Datta, Dean of the Performing Arts Department, Assam Down Town University; and Sh. Jatindra Mohan Bora, Administrative Officer, IGNCA, Regional Centre Guwahati.
The program was a resounding success, thanks to the invaluable contributions from Dr. Ritismita Devi and Misimi Bharali of Assam Down Town University. Their efforts and dedication made this event a significant step towards the preservation of our cultural heritage, instilling a sense of achievement and pride in all those involved.
This event is part of IGNCA’s ongoing efforts to document, research, and preserve the endangered folk songs, dances, and musical instruments of various communities in Northeast India. It aligns with IGNCA’s larger mission to study and preserve the oral traditions, performing arts, visual arts, literature, and lifestyle of the region’s diverse tribal and folk communities.
