Efforts to Set a World Record with Jhumur Dance

Moving Towards a Historic Achievement

Many years ago, when satellite channels were not available, people had to rely on bamboo antennas to watch Guwahati Doordarshan. Every evening, the Northeast cultural program featured various folk dances, and Jhumur dance was one of them. Today, the government has taken an initiative to set a world record for Jhumur dance along with Bihu, bringing pride to Assam.

The Cultural Diversity of Assam

Assam is a land rich in diversity, home to various ethnic communities living in harmony. Among them, the Tea Tribe Community holds significant cultural importance. This community celebrates Karam Parab or Karam Puja, which is deeply connected to the performance of Jhumur dance.

Karam Parab and Jhumur Dance

The Tea Tribe community performs Jhumur dance as a part of Karam Puja celebrations. The term ‘Jhumur’ originates from the Santali Mundari language, where ‘Jhum’ means gathering of people and ‘Oib’ means encircling. In some regions, it is also known as ‘Bumui’.

Unique Features of Jhumur Dance

Jhumur dance performances begin with traditional songs dedicated to Lord Srihari, Dhool, Madal, Buzanari, and other deities. While primarily performed by women, men also participate in this dance.

During the dance, performers hold hands to form a long chain. The first dancer intertwines her right-hand fingers with the left-hand fingers of the next dancer, moving rhythmically. The performance is usually led by young men and women, where the men play traditional instruments like Dhool, Madal, Cymbals, and Flutes, while the women dance to their tunes.

The Road to a World Record

The Assam government’s initiative to set a world record for Jhumur dance alongside Bihu is a commendable step toward showcasing Assam’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage. This effort will help highlight the traditions of the Tea Tribe community and make Assam’s folk art recognized worldwide. May Assam’s culture and traditions continue to shine on the global platform!

FAQ - Jhumur Dance World Record

What is Jhumur Dance? ⇩

Jhumur Dance is a traditional folk dance performed by the Tea Tribe community of Assam, usually during Karam Parab celebrations.

What is the significance of Karam Parab? ⇩

Karam Parab is a festival celebrated by the Tea Tribe community, and Jhumur Dance is an integral part of this celebration.

How is Jhumur Dance performed? ⇩

Jhumur Dance is performed in a chain formation, where dancers hold hands and move rhythmically while men play traditional instruments like Dhool, Madal, Cymbals, and Flutes.

Why is Assam setting a world record for Jhumur Dance? ⇩

The Assam government aims to showcase Jhumur Dance alongside Bihu on a global stage to preserve and promote the state's rich cultural heritage.