Guwahati, May 5: Assam down town University hosted an engaging cultural and spiritual discourse on Chiya Geet, one of Assam’s lesser-known yet deeply significant musical traditions, bringing together artists, researchers, students, and cultural enthusiasts for an enriching exchange on the heritage and relevance of the art form.
The event, titled “The Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Chiya Geet”, highlighted the importance of preserving Assam’s folk traditions amid changing cultural trends and modern lifestyles. Organised by the Department of Performing Arts under the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell, the programme created a meaningful platform for discussions on the historical, devotional, and socio-cultural dimensions of Chiya Geet.
Hiranyaprabha Nath Emphasises Preservation of Chiya Geet
The keynote speaker of the event was renowned Chiya Geet artist Hiranyaprabha Nath, the first All India Radio-approved artist of Chiya Geet. Addressing the gathering, she stressed the urgent need to preserve and promote the musical tradition.
She remarked that Chiya Geet is a unique treasure of Assam’s musical heritage and warned that the art form could gradually disappear if culturally aware individuals and institutions do not actively support and practice it.
According to her, preserving folk traditions is not only about safeguarding music but also about protecting collective memory, spiritual values, and regional identity. She appreciated the initiative taken by Assam down town University in creating academic spaces dedicated to folk culture and indigenous artistic practices.
Exploring the Spiritual and Devotional Essence of Chiya Geet
The discussion session also featured Chiya Geet researcher Bhadrakanta Nath, who delivered an insightful analysis of the spiritual and cultural dimensions of the tradition.
He explained that the term “Chiya” refers to praise or remembrance of God, highlighting the devotional essence embedded within the songs. According to him, Chiya Geet is not merely a musical expression but a spiritual and social practice deeply connected to Assamese cultural identity.
Bhadrakanta Nath elaborated on the philosophical and emotional depth of the songs, discussing how devotional sentiments are conveyed through melody, rhythm, and lyrical structure. He highlighted the influence of Vaishnavite traditions on Chiya Geet and its contribution to shaping Assamese socio-cultural life over generations.
Discussions on Musical Structure and Folk Traditions
The session explored various dimensions of Chiya Geet, including its musical composition, mythological roots, and use of traditional instruments. Participants were introduced to the distinct musical structure and artistic characteristics that differentiate Chiya Geet from other Assamese folk forms.
Bhadrakanta Nath also spoke about the various emotional elements, or rasas and bhavas, reflected in the songs. He noted that the performances often convey devotion, compassion, longing, and spiritual surrender, creating a deep emotional connection between performers and audiences.
The discussion further addressed the role of local language and oral traditions in preserving the authenticity of Chiya Geet. Speakers highlighted how folk music traditions often serve as living archives of community memory, preserving stories, beliefs, and cultural practices that may otherwise fade over time.
Impact of Modernisation on Folk Music Traditions
A significant part of the discourse focused on the challenges faced by Chiya Geet artists in the contemporary era. Speakers expressed concern over the declining popularity of traditional folk practices due to rapid urbanisation, changing lifestyles, and the growing influence of modern entertainment platforms.
The discussion highlighted that many traditional artists struggle with limited opportunities, lack of institutional support, and diminishing public engagement. Participants stressed the need for documentation, academic research, and regular cultural programmes to sustain such art forms for future generations.
The speakers also encouraged younger audiences to take an active interest in learning and promoting traditional music, emphasizing that cultural continuity depends on participation and community involvement.
Live Performances Enrich the Cultural Experience
Alongside the academic discussion, Hiranyaprabha Nath and her accompanying artists presented live performances of various forms of Chiya Geet, captivating the audience with soulful renditions rooted in devotion and tradition.
The performances provided participants with a rare opportunity to experience the emotional depth and artistic richness of the tradition firsthand. The use of traditional musical instruments and vocal techniques added authenticity and created a spiritually immersive atmosphere within the venue.
The live demonstrations also helped younger participants better understand the practical and performative aspects of Chiya Geet, complementing the academic discussions with experiential learning.
Academic and Cultural Collaboration at the University
The event reflected the growing emphasis on integrating cultural heritage studies into academic spaces. Through initiatives like this, Assam down town University continues to encourage interdisciplinary learning that combines scholarship, cultural preservation, and community engagement.
The welcome address was delivered by Bandana Dutta, Dean of Studies, who also felicitated the speakers and artists in recognition of their contributions to Assamese culture and folk traditions.
In her address, Pratiti Barman, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, highlighted the growing challenges faced by folk arts and stressed the importance of preserving indigenous artistic practices through education and research.
The discussion session was moderated by Assistant Professor Hirakjyoti Das, who guided the interactive exchange among speakers and participants.
Participation from Artists, Students and Researchers
The programme witnessed active participation from students and researchers of performing arts from several universities across Guwahati. The interactive nature of the session encouraged meaningful dialogue on the future of folk arts in Assam.
Renowned musician Pradyut Kumar Mishra and Chandrima Sharma from All India Radio Guwahati were also present at the event and encouraged the participants to continue engaging with traditional musical heritage.
Their presence added further significance to the programme, reflecting broader support from the cultural and broadcasting community for preserving Assam’s folk traditions.
Reaffirming Commitment to Assamese Cultural Heritage
The event concluded as a meaningful celebration of Assam’s spiritual and musical traditions, reaffirming the importance of preserving indigenous art forms in an increasingly modernized world.
By organizing such discussions and performances, Assam down town University continues to strengthen its role as a centre for cultural scholarship and artistic engagement. The programme not only honoured the legacy of Chiya Geet but also inspired students and young researchers to contribute towards safeguarding Assam’s rich folk heritage for future generations.
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