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Is Assam Accord set to be scrapped on May 11?

Rahul Chanda

File photo of the Assam Accord signing in New Delhi

ecently, Assam Sanmilita Mahasangha (ASM), a self-proclaimed community of indigenous people of the state, has expressed concern over the ongoing National Register of Citizens (NRC) updating process saying that the exercise would only ensure citizenship for 70 lakh odd

illegal migrants staying in the state besides facilitating dual citizenship for 1.5 crores legal and illegal citizens. Also, a concerned citizen of Assam and a political analyst, Mridul Bora, talking to G Plus, said that ASM has filed a case in the Supreme Court and in the petition they have chalContinued on page 2

The Great Guwahati Health Check World Health Day Special PG 04

Special Bihu Pages The Guwahati Bihu Guide Inside

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Lead Story

Is Assam Accord set to be scrapped on May 11?

Continued from page 1

With an organisation challenging the legal validity of the accord in the Supreme Court, a city-based political analyst feels that the Accord will be scrapped and raises question about what the cut-off year will be

Protests are a regular affair in the city when it comes to the non-implementation of the Assam Accord | G Plus photo

lenged the constitutional validity of Section 6 (A) of the Citizenship Act. He said that the next hearing of the case is 11th May. Now, what is the case all about? Why is the organisation not happy with the NRC process? Is the Assam Accord constitutionally valid? Why is the cut-off year in Assam 1971 and in other states 1951? G Plus tries to explore after talking to experts.

The concern Mridul Bora, talking to G Plus, said that in the entire country the cut-off year for citizenship is 1951 whereas in Assam it is 1971. He said that the NRC is getting updated based on the Assam Accord which was signed in 1985. So he questioned why there is a difference between only Assam and the rest of the country. He opined that if there was an issue of illegal migration in Assam from 1951 to 1971 and the government was not being able to find a solution, why did the same problem not arise in other states of the country? He said that there are other states in the country with international borders but they have the cut-off year as 1951. But in Assam the cutoff year is 1971 which is strange. He said that on 11th May there is a case coming up before a 4-member constitutional bench. He said that the case was filed by ASM and in the petition they have challenged the constitutional validity of Sec-

tion 6 (A) of the Citizenship Act. Bora said that Section 6 (A) was inserted in the Citizenship Act in pursuance of the Assam Accord 1985. He said that according to a lot of intellectuals of Assam it is true that the Clause 6 (A) of Assam Accord is the lifeline of the state’s indigenous people. Bora said that ASM has challenged the Clause 6 (A) asking why the cut-off year in Assam is 1971 and not 1951 as with other states. Bora said that by filing this case Motiur Rahman (chief of ASM) is trying to equate Assam with all other states of India. Bora said that Rahman does not believe in the Assam Accord and has asked the highest court of India which is correct.

The confusion Bora also said that all other states follow the Foreigners Act 1946 where the foreigner, if detected, gets deported immediately because the burden of proof is on the foreigner to prove that he is an Indian. In Assam however, we have to prove that the suspected person is a Bangladeshi or a foreigner. He said that in Assam, acts like IMDT Act was created and then repealed and there are foreigners’ tribunals and after all the rigorous process it is up to us to prove that the suspected persons are foreigners. Bora questioned why cannot foreigners who came to Assam, after 1.1.1966 (inclusive)

and up to 24.3.1971 (midnight) be detected in accordance with the provisions of the Foreigners Act, 1946 and the Foreigners (Tribunal) orders, 1964. He said names of the foreigners, so detected, was to be deleted from the electoral rolls in force, provision of Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939 was to be applied for registration again and subsequently restoration, on the expiry of 10 years from the date of detection. Bora questioned the complicated clauses and said that he feels that a single, simple and straight approach of 1951 would have been more effective.

Is Assam Accord legally valid? Bora predicted with his own analysis that the Supreme Court (SC) will take 1951 as the cut-off year to keep parity with the rest of the country. Otherwise the SC will have to justify the 1971 factor for Assam in the backdrop of the Assam Accord of 1985. Bora said the court will thereafter analyse the legal validity of Assam Accord. He said that if Assam Accord is legally valid then the 1971 factor will be legally applicable for Assam. According to Bora, the Assam Accord is not legally valid. Bora said that an accord is basically an agreement between two parties to solve a conflict amicably and he stressed that the Accord is not a bill or a law. He said that if the agreement

was produced before the assembly or the parliament to be made into an act or a bill, it is legally valid only then. Assam Accord is just an amicable solution but was not ratified by the state or the central government. He said that it is difficult for him to understand why the Accord that was signed in 1985 was never ratified. He said that the ratification process was never followed. He said that when the court analyses the constitution validity of Clause 6 (A), the legal validity of Assam Accord will come up for question before the Supreme Court from 11th May. Bora said that the Assam accord will be scrapped simply because the Supreme Court will follow the law. Bora said if the Assam Accord is scrapped then the NRC updation process will be questioned. According to Bora Assam Public Works had lodged a PIL in the Supreme Court (No. 274/09), which the court accepted and ordered the state government to update the NRC taking 1971 as the base year and the process has already started in the state. But he said at that time this 6 (A) validity case was not challenged and the NRC cut-off year was given according to the Assam Accord. According to him, if now the Assam Accord gets scrapped, then the cut-off year will be 1951 and the entire NRC exercise undertaken so far will be just a waste. He said that the APW will be asked by the SC if they have a problem with the cut-off year being 1951. Aabhijeet Sharma of APW, talking to G Plus, said that APW on 28th July 2009 filed a writ petition civil in the Supreme Court against the Bangladeshi problem of Assam (case number-274/09). The prayers, according to him, were to delete the names of 41 lakh Bangladeshi voters in the 2006 voters’ list, prepare a fresh voters’ list where Indians can vote for Indians and for the process to prepare the NRC on the basis of 1951 with cutoff year as 1971 according to Assam Accord. Sharma said that the SC asked to prepare the NRC based on this writ petition only. Eventually, an NRC coordinator was appointed, funds were released, database made ready and family tree verification is going on. Enquiring about the ASM case which will be heard on 11th May, Sharma said that ASM

moved the court in 2012 (case number 562/12) challenging the Assam Accord and the case was referred to a constitutional bench. He said a 5-judge bench will hear the case on 11th May and APW will follow the

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G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Lead Story court judgement. He said, “We welcome everything as there is a political market going on in Assam in the name of the Assam Accord and this problem should be solved.” He said that in 1979 the agitation started and in 1985 the Assam Accord was signed. He said 855 martyrs died, careers of lakhs were ruined, many people were rendered disabled and even after 32 years of the Accord people are still confused whether the cutoff year will be 1951 or 1971. As Prafulla Mahanta became the chief minister of the state after Assam Accord was signed and he was one of the signatories of the Assam Accord, G Plus thought of taking his view on the issue.

The signatory Prafulla Mahanta, talking to G Plus said, “There’s a provision in the Assam Accord that some laws can be implemented by the home ministry and that’s why the central government is entirely responsible for the implementation of the laws that are described in the Accord. If one looks up the Assam Accord, they will get to know what I’m

talking about. Anybody born in India on or after 1950 will be entitled the citizenship of this country. But here again, we have some complications. When East Pakistan was dis-

the new move in the parliament which involves the Accord is a practical one.” He added, “The central government keeps modifying laws and amendments according to its wish, especially

solved and Bangladesh was announced as a newly independent country back in 1971, we, the Assam Government and the Central Government finally had to agree that the cut-off year will be 1971 from now on. In the Accord, we also agreed to a provision where the name of the illegal migrants and foreigners should be detected. The Accord was placed before the parliament. Because of the ignorance of the Centre, the Accord could not be enforced into law. The state government does not have that power. I hope

for our state. This is the reason why we still have the illegal migrant problem. They kept changing the cut-off year. The acceptance of Hindu Bangladeshi again will not be tolerated as this clearly stands in defiance of the Accord. Also the procedure of NRC might not be a very practical step to identify the illegal foreigners for now. Back in 1985, when I went to sign the Accord, I was under a lot of pressure. Although I did not want to agree on 1971, I had no choice, as there was political pressure from various parties

and both in the state and at the centre.” The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), always known for being an organisation which is with the people of the state, have forever insisted that the state and the central governments implement the Accord. G Plus talked to its Advisor, Samujjal Bhattacharya who said that the Accord was laid in the parliament and it is a national commitment. He said that because of the Accord the Citizenship Act was amended and Clause 6 (A) was inserted. He said that all the people of Assam have accepted the Accord and the body stands with the Assam Accord. He said that it is the duty of the government of India and Assam to implement the Accord. So the AASU stands with the Accord but the fact remains that after 32 years the Accord is yet to be implemented in totality and the 11th May SC order might further bring changes but the NRC and the cut-off year continue to remain a vexed issue for the people of the state. rahul.chanda@g-plus.in

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

World Health Day Special

The Great Guwahati Health Check

Juthika Baruah

We all know the cliché: health is wealth. But recent surveys reveal that people are suffering from a variety of ailments including lifestyle diseases which seem to be very common according to some of the city’s leading doctors. Guwahati’s changing lifestyle has had an adverse effect on its health and so, on the occasion of World Health Day (7th April) with the theme this year being “Depression: Let’s Talk”, doctors of Guwahati speak out about the health issues that plague Guwahati. The most common cases that are seen among the children are brain fever, dengue and encephalitis. The cases of dengue are more among the school going children as they wear half pants and are prone to mosquitoes biting their legs. Most of the cases come from outside the city where children do not know that they should be careful during the daytime as the dengue mosquito bites during the daytime only making them more vulnerable. Brain fever is another ailment that children suffer from. Children cannot express their problem. Sometimes it becomes difficult for the parents to gauge the actual problem and when the temperature gets high it affects the brain. Also cases of bronchitis and pneumonia are more among the children.

Dr. Prakritish Bora (Paediatrician) The rates of alcohol and tobacco consumption in Assam are higher than the national average as seen from the report of NFHS 2015-16. Reduction of tobacco and alcohol consumption is very important from public health perspective. As per the report of National Cancer Registry Programme of Indian Council of Medical Research, 39,635 new cancer patients were diagnosed in the NE India during the period of 2012-2014, of which, 29,962 were diagnosed in the State of Assam alone. However, with this year’s topic being on Depression it is important to gauge its risk in the present scenario. As per the latest estimates from the World Health Organization, more than 3 crore people are now living with depression - an increase of more than 18% between 2005 and 2015. According to the latest report of National Family Health Survey (NFHS) of 2015-16 in Assam, 29.7% of men and 2.9% of women consume alcohol in urban region and 36.8% of men and 7.7% of women consume alcohol in rural areas of the state.

Dr. Amal Ch. Kataky (Director, BBCI)

The major incidence in epidemic proportion is head injury due to road accidents, stroke, back pain and neck pain and also epilepsy. The cases of death are very high in number and in India there is one accident every minute and one death every four minutes. Moreover, back and neck pains are also very high and 80% of the population suffers from back and neck pain once in their lifetime. This is due to the changing lifestyle, lack of physical activities and access load of school bags on children etc. Accidents and back pain are seen mostly among the youths up to 40 years of age and strokes are seen mostly among the elderly who suffer from diabetes and blood pressure. Proper food habits and regular exercise are a must for the people in order to prevent lifestyle diseases. Epilepsy is also one of the diseases which is very significant among the people and there are many untreated epilepsy patients. Superstition is the reason for which the disease is still more among the people as they are unaware of the treatment.

Dr. Navanil Baruah (Neuro-Surgeon) Childhood obesity is a threat for adult diabetes and high cardio-vascular risk factor as they are the future of diabetic patient and heart disease and most of the mortality cases in adults are due to the cardio-vascular attack. Assam has about 12% of childhood obesity under the age of 5-7 years which is hereditary but most of the cases are due to unhealthy lifestyle. Childhood obesity leads to high cholesterol which causes early heart disease in men and females have problems like irregular menstrual cycle. “In a recent survey in Guwahati among the school students, it has been found that Body Mass Index (BMI) is much higher under the age of 14 years. The normal BMI in female should be 21-22 and in male, 22-23. In rural areas, the BMI is found to be more at the age of 12-13 years amongst the male while in females it is high at the age of 14 years. The urban children do not get adequate amount of Vitamin D which comes from sunlight,” said Dr. Sarma.

Dr. Dipty Sarma (Head of Department of Endocrinology, Guwahati Medical College Hospital)

Heart disease has emerged as the number one killer disease in both urban and rural areas of the country. The largest ever study of deaths shows heart ailments to have replaced communicable diseases as the biggest killer in rural and urban areas. The results are surprising because they indicate a reversal in disease patterns in the country from communicable disease to non-communicable disease or lifestyle disease. About 25% of deaths in the age group of 25-69 years occur because of heart disease. But the figures may increase as Assam lacks authentic data on the causes of death. The major challenge for a super specialist doctor practicing in the field of cardiac surgery in Assam is to make basic and advanced cardiac surgical care affordable and available to the population of Assam, North-East India and its neighbouring countries.

Dr. Bikash Rai Das (Senior Consultant Cardiac Surgeon) In Gastroenterology, cases of liver problems are more and stems from consumption of alcohol. Also due to contraction of Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C viruses, the liver gets damaged. Consumption of alcohol is more here in the state and therefore people suffer most from liver disease. 30% of the liver disease is caused due to consumption of alcohol and 30% from the Hepatitis B and C virus and the rest 30-40% happen due to Hepatitis A and D virus. Chronic liver disease is very common among the people and the risk factor is high in this disease. Hepatitis A is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. The virus is primarily spread when an uninfected (and unvaccinated) person ingests food or water that is contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. The disease is closely associated with unsafe water or food, inadequate sanitation and poor personal hygiene.

Dr. Mukesh Agarwala (Gastroenterologist)

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

World Health Day Special

Falling medicine prices bring relief to patients Juthika Baruah

The NPPA has taken a good step by listing the stent in NLEM as it will reduce the undue profit making allowances of the doctors; AMDA urged NPPA to list other surgical items in NLEM.

he National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has listed some medicines, the prices of which should come under Drug Price Control Order. The prices of medicines which are listed under National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) have been reduced bringing great relief for patients. The cost of cancer medicines is very high and people who cannot afford to buy the medicines have to literally pay heavily for the price. Under the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 issued by the Government of India from the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) fixes the ceiling prices of the drugs and accordingly, the new manufactured drugs are made available in the market now after the order was issued in March. Speaking to G Plus, President of Assam Medicine Dealers’ Association (AMDA), NL

Agarwala said, “The prices of 103 medicines had been reduced earlier after the NLEM had listed the medicines and this time also prices of many drugs have been reduced, especially those of cancer and lifestyle diseases as per the NLEM. The medicines of Tuberculosis, Antibiotic, Cancer, Diabetes etc. have been reduced. There are two types of taxes in medicine - one which includes tax of 5% and the other which has a tax of 14.5%. But 90% of the medicines have the tax at 5%. The medicines which have the tax of 14.5% are those of vitamins which can be termed as food items. Some medicines do not even have tax but these are very few.” Agarwala said that the NPPA has also listed the stent in the NLEM which will be greatly beneficial for the patients as the doctors and the companies normally make huge profits out of the implants that are being used in surgeries. AMDA urged the NPPA to list the

surgical items used for every department like ENT, Cancer, Neurology, Orthopaedics etc. so that the doctors can stop the profit making policy out of the patients’ money, especially those who can barely afford the treatment sometimes. “The implants that have been done are very costly and therefore people from lower classes or lower middle classes cannot afford as the doctors charge double the rate. But now that the NPPA has listed it in NLEM, the doctors will not be able to charge high fees,” said Agarwala. The two big sources of pricing corruption in Indian medical practice is the stent and the chemotherapy drugs and the companies who partake in these two treatments have turned it into a racket over the last 10-15 years. The companies in the stent business never disclose their actual price for which people are not aware of the same. “The National Pharmaceutical

Pricing Authority, India’s drug pricing watchdog, slashed stent prices by up to 85% in February after the health ministry included drug-eluting, biodegradable and bare metal stents in the National List of Essential Medicines in July. Overseas companies, including US-based Abbott and Boston Scientific, account for almost 70% of India’s stent market,” said Agarwala. 80% of the interventional cardiology happens in the private sector and there are lakhs of angioplasties happening every year with the doctors making huge profit out of it. “If the price of the stent is Rs. 10,000 it shouldn’t be more than Rs. 20,000 in hospitals but they charge up to Rs. 50,000 which is very high. Now that the NPPA has fixed the price of the stent the doctors or the hospital authority cannot charge excess prices,” Agarwala said. The government has fixed the price according to three board categories but each individual stent should have a fixed MRP for the sake of transparency just like the medicine which has an MRP on each strip. Recently however, drug price regulator NPPA has increased price of stents by around 2% after taking into account the wholesale price index. The prices of bare metal stents have gone up to Rs 7,400 from the earlier announced prices of Rs 7,260. Similarly, the price of drug eluting stent has increased to Rs 30,180 from Rs 29,600 earlier. In February, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) brought stents under price control and capped ceiling price of coronary stents at Rs 7,260 for bare metal stent and Rs 29,600 for drug-eluting ones. The corresponding average MRPs before the price control stood at Rs 45,100 and Rs 1.21 lakhs respectively. NPPA has also fixed ceiling price of 46

drug formulations used for various ailments including Hepatitis B, HIV and Tuberculosis. NPPA has fixed/revised ceiling prices of 46 scheduled formulations of Schedule-I under Drugs (Price Control) Amendment Order. The government fixes the prices of essential drugs based on the simple average of all medicines in a particular therapeutic segment, having sales of more than 1%. Besides, it regulates the prices of all other medicines, while companies are allowed to hike prices of such drugs by up to 10% in a year. The government had notified DPCO, 2013, which covers 680 formulations, with effect from May 15, 2014, replacing the 1995 order that regulated prices of only 74 bulk drugs.

juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

Weather report for the week Guwahati

SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

FRI

Partly Cloudy

Sunny

Partly Cloudy

33° / 21° C

33° / 19° C

31° / 19° C

31° / 20° C

32° / 20° C

31° / 20° C

SATURDAY

Storm

31° / 22° C

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

World Health Day Special

Juthika Baruah

Faulty system creates apprehensions on city’s healthcare scenario

The health scenario in the city needs to be scrutinized as both the private and government hospitals fail to provide quality treatment to patients

File photo of the state’s premier hospital, the GMCH at Bhangagarh | G Plus photo

he health department has failed to provide the good facilities to the public and repeated allegations of negligence of hospital authorities towards its patients has created apprehensions in the minds of the people about treatment received by patients in the city. Whether it is government or private hospitals, people seem to be losing faith in the health system. The private hospitals are doing business earning huge profits at the expense of the public’s hard earned money with people not having much option but to go for treatment in the private nursing homes. People who cannot afford these private hospitals go to government hospitals where they continually face problems like lack of medicines, lack of beds in ICU, poor infrastructure etc. Controversies and allegations continue to surface in these hospitals that negligent doctors often give wrong treatment to the patients as a result of which lives have been lost or irrevocably impaired. “There are some communication gaps between the doctors and the patients because of which these incidents take place in the hospital. The doctors do not care to clarify or explain the problems to the patients or attendants. Also, it happens that sometimes we do not get time to communicate with the attendants for which they are not aware of the problems of the patients and

when the patient dies the family members think that it is due to the negligence of the hospital authority or the doctor,” said one of the renowned doctors of the city while speaking to G Plus. The doctor said that proper training of manpower is important for the hospitals and this should also include personality development coaching which is vital as behaviour and body language are important too. “The staffs sometime do not behave well with the patients or their attendants for which the people become frustrated leading to misunderstanding. We people are also very egoistic which should not be the case as we are dealing with sick people. The pain that patients suffer is much higher than what we deal with and therefore they should be treated well and with kindness. We have introduced the certificate course to stop these miscommunications between patients and doctors and also with the other staffs of the hospital,” the doctor said. Talking to G Plus, Joint Director of Health, Kamrup (M) Ganesh Saikia, while commenting about the health scenario said, “There are many factors which need to be studied and till date no research has been done as to why the health system of the state has not been improved and why such mistakes repeatedly take place in the hospitals. Levelling of allegations of negligence on doctors or techni-

cians or the hospital authority because of which patients lose their lives cannot be quantified. Sometimes when we enquire into such cases we find that the negligence which we had assumed is not true; rather the cases take a different twist.” Saikia said the research is a long process and that the health department will deliberate on the issue as to why the people of the state have to go to outside for treatment in spite of there being many hospitals in the city. Many incidents have occurred in Guwahati Medical College and

Hospitals (GMCH) and one incident that was without precedents was the baby trading nexus which sent shivers down the spines of people. Also, there was the blood bank nexus where some racketeers disappeared after taking money from a patient on the promise that they will give blood. These incidents emanate from a faulty system that does not keep an eye on mischievous elements while having serious security failings. An inside source of the hospital informed G Plus that such rackets often take place in GMCH but escapes media attention. “In GMCH there are 2,245 beds but more than 5,000 patients are admitted in the hospital. Staffs are available only for 2,245 beds but not for the excess patients that are admitted. The available staffs have to do double duty looking after all the 5,000 patients that are admitted but most of the staff work under the wage labour and are not on a good payroll but have to do double duty with responsibility towards the patients. This often leads to frustration and they misbehave with the patients or their family members. Later though it appears as though the hospital authority misbehaved with the people or it is due to their negligence that a patient has lost his life,” the source informed. The source also informed that GMCH is running with junior doctors while the professors and senior doctors are busy with their private practices. “The health system has many loopholes which have not been given due importance and

until and unless the problems of the hospital staffs are solved such incidents will not come to an end. Rather it will increase in the coming days. Maximum patients who come for treatment in GMCH are from lower class or BPL families and they come with the hope that they will get better treatment at low cost. But here it seems people don’t even get medicines for free and most of the medicines are not available in the hospital pharmacy for which people have to buy from outside,” the source said. He also said that the upper level officers do not fight for the cause of the Grade IV staffs but for whom the hospital is actually running. No wonder untoward incidents frequently take place inside the campus. The staffs also have to run their families and with such a low wages they often have to opt for the wrong path. On the other hand the private hospitals are money-making machines in the name of treatment. “In a single surgery a doctor charges a huge amount and other than the surgery fee they also take OT fee, medicine prices, charges for the surgical items, etc. For surgical items which cost around Rs. 10,000, the hospital takes Rs. 40,000-50,000. Such kind of rackets should be stopped in the hospitals and it is only possible if the health department is concerned about it and fixes the prices of the surgical items,” said NL Agarwala, President of Assam Medicine Dealers’ Association. juthika.baruah@g-plus.in

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Feature

Somnath Bora – the world listens when he plays the Dhol Chandrika Das

When it comes to the Axomiya Dhol, the name, Somnath Bora, is taken with profound reverence. The proud title holder of Oja, Samrat and Jadukar, Somnath Bora can play multiple dhols simultaneously, producing diverse sounds like that of a moving train, a village woman grinding rice in a dheki, thunder in the sky, and even birds chirping. With the dhol hanging from his shoulders and maari in hand, Bora has given new dimensions to Assamese culture like nobody else has

Dhol’r Oja and his connection with Bihu – A look back Somnath Bora was born in 1961 His mother, whom he lovingly ‘Bouti,’ used to sing Biya Naam, Bihu Naam and other folk songs; it was she who initiated Bora to Bihu naam The tradition of playing the dhol in marriages of those days drew Bora towards music In 1964, as a 3-year old kid Bora witnessed ‘Hita Oja’ playing the dhol exhibiting remarkable skills The ‘Dholiya Botah Haat’ (which is also known as Dholiya Haat) played by the Oja stirred his interest towards the Dhol Bora began performing from the age of five

The legendary connection between Bihu and Dhol

he tradition of dhol is older than Bihu by four eras. The current rituals, styles, and innovations of dhol have evolved over the eras. During the Satya Yuga the dhol was believed to have been made of gold and was played by Anaadi Dholiya; the dhols in Treta Yuga were made of silver and was

played by Binandi Dholiya; the Dwapar Yuga ones were made of bronze and was played by Nandi Dholiya; the current Kali Yuga dhols are made of wood and are played by Sodhan Dholiya. On 2nd December, 1214 AD, when Chaolung Sukapha arrived in Assam, he was welcomed with the beats of the Assamese dhol by

Sodhan Dhoilya; the Dhol culture prevalent today found its roots then. Impressed by the sound of the dhol, Sukapha gave it royal status. Meanwhile, in Kesaikhati Guxaani Thaan of Sadia, the tradition of human sacrifice was prevalent. During one such ritual, a young girl named Kolimoti was found to be dancing merrily

just minutes before she was to be sacrificed. It is believed that, seeing her so happy, the godly figures of the village came forward to end the ritual of human sacrifice forever. The respected people of that society termed the happy gyrations of Kolimoti as a very graceful dance. Dancing Kolimoti was then accompanied

Somnath Bora speaks on style of playing the Dhol

A dholiya always hold the maari (the stick) with his right hand and beats the other side with

his left hand. The hand plays the Taali side and the Maari beats the Kuboni side. The side of the dhol played by hands is made of cow’s (female) leather; the other side is made of bull’s leather. Dhols painted with ‘Laa’, ‘Hengul’ and ‘Neel’ shade always give a better and distinct sound and this

Understanding the title of ‘Oja’ The identities of Dholiya and Oja are completely different. The one who plays the ‘Seu’ of a dhol, is known as dholiya. The one who can play ‘Sowra Haat and Tini Lekhor Buloni’ (24 different hands on multiple dhols simultaneously), can play the Palosh, and is accepted by

the people of the society as superior or veteran is entitled for the title ‘Oja’. Bora was conferred the title in 1986. His Guru was Dhiren Rajkhowa.

factor holds great significance. From grabbing the first position during the Moina Parijat competition at a very tender age to being conferred the title of ‘Oja’ by the Assam government, Somnath Bora has travelled a long way with the musical instrument. During an inter college music competition in 1978, he bagged the gold medal among contestants from 43 colleges. Mohini Mohan Saikia, the principal of the college where Somnath studied, conferred him with the title of ‘Lokabadya Bixaarod.’

by one Dhan Koliya, who played the dhol out of sheer joy at this development. This performance that was lovingly accepted by all, later transpired into Bihu. ‘Sadia to Dhuburi’ goes the saying; Bihu emerged in the upper Assam region and later spread out to the entire state eventually becoming the folk dance of Assam.

তািল কুটিন কনািৰ

কাটিনছাল বৰিত

কনাইজিৰ

িবহুৱান

েঢালৰ মািৰ

েখালা

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Feature Breaking the myth related to Moghai Oja Moghai Oja, the predecessor Oja of Somnath Bora made it to the news back then as ‘the first Indian to perform dhol and Bihu on international platform.’ During a felicitation programme held by Gana Natya Sangha, at Dighalipukhuri, in 2009, renowned Assamese singer Nikunjalata Mahanta clarified otherwise. Although Late Bhupen Hazarika and Moghai Oja were supposed to perform in Soviet Russia in the late 70’s, Moghai Oja

On the current trend of Bihu The vintage artist who has always thrived to take the culture and tradition of Assam ahead is discontent with the way Bihu has become commercialized and a business for the artists. He said, “We took years to place Assamese music on the global platform. But it’s sad to see how self-proclaimed artists today gain overnight popularity with the wrong sense of music and immoral lyrics. We feel disrespected today. I have done so much for Assam. Now there is hardly any function where I am invited. Modern music has overpowered our folk music. That hurts me.”

had actually returned from Kolkata citing homesickness. Unfortunately for Somnath Bora, he is still considered the second Assamese and Indian holding this honour.

However, many senior artists of the Assamese cultural fraternity have reiterated that the Moghai Oja’s fame to international success is a myth.

1978- Earned gold medal in Inter College Music Festival, Dibrugarh University

2012- Earned the title of “Dhol Samrat” by Governor of Meghalaya

1981- Was conferred with the title of ‘Oja’ by Assam Govt

2013- Performed in the Coke Studio at MTV with Sankar Mahadevan

1982- Participated in 9th Asian Games held at New Delhi

2014- Performed in the Opening Ceremony of ISL

1984- Govt of Maharastra awarded the title “Dholor Jadukar”. 1985- Represented Guwahati University in NAMY Fest (Non Alignment Movement Youth Festival) and won the gold medal by performing Bihu Dance 2008- Awarded with “Kala Sanman” by Honourable Cultural Minister, Govt of Rajasthan 2008- Awrded with “Gems Of Assam” by Governor of Assam 2009- Participated at 3rd Delphic Games (World Music Competition) and became the first Indian and only Indian to win a gold medal in individual percussion. 2010- Participated at Opening ceremony of Commonwealth Games held at New Delhi 2010- Became Music Director at Octave Festival held at Haryana, New Delhi, Allahabad, UP. 2011- Participated at SAARC Symposium on Folk Dance, bangladesh

held at Salt lake stadium, Kolkata. 2015- Performed in Biswa Hindi Sanmelan held at Bhopal, MP 2016- Performed at 26th January Republic Day Grand Parade at Rajpath, New Delhi. Won the first prize and got the best performance. Got the 3rd prize for Assam Tableau. 2016- Performed at “Bharat Parv 2016” held at Rajpath Lawns, New Delhi in the occasion of Independence Day 2017- Performed at “Lokotsav 2017” held at Kala Academy, Panaji, Goa and became the best performing team. 2017- Performed at Bharat Parv 2017 on the occasion of Republic Day Somnath Bora and international fame – Thailand, Bhutan, Soviet Russia, Czechoslovakia, Germany, Tuscan, Siberia, Dubai, South Africa, New York, California, Chicago, San Fransisco, London, Great Britain, Combodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Japan

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Special

The rich legacy of Latasil Bihutoli

Kalyan Deb

Into its 66th year of holding what is endearingly termed as Mancha Bihu or Bihu on stage as also being the pioneer Sanmilani to bring stage Bihu to the state, G Plus traces the legacy of Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani and its performing stage at the Latasil Field ing an identity of Bihu through an anthem had also emerged in the same year. The song Sri Moi Axomi written by Purushottam Das, which came in for all-round praise including Ambikagiri Raichoudhury, was suggested as the song that should be made the Bihu anthem. Till date, that the song is hummed soon after the flag hoisting ceremony is conducted.

The Competitions

Latasil Field, the venue of the Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani Bihu stage | G Plus photo

s the first drops of rain moisten the parched earth after the dry Assamese months of Phagun and Chait and the fresh green leaves announce the arrival of the bountiful month of Bohaag, Assam gets ready for the rich tapestry of colours that is Rongali Bihu. It is a festival that is celebrated with much gaiety and the preparations are already on in full swing; the festival will be celebrated with all its grandeur. Stages not just in the state but across the globe will be set up irrespective of the Assamese population strength of such localities and disagreeing on any kind of bargain to the festive fervour will be the order of the day. However, among these numerous stages and platforms to which the Bihubolia people throng, there is one particular platform that is in a league all of its own. The Latasil Bihu is one of the most sought after Bihu celebration platforms where artists descend from all north-eastern states to showcase and share their culture. The Bihutoli, with a legacy of 66 years, is considered as the first ever Mancha Bihu in not just Guwahati but all of Assam. Since the date of its inception, people in lakhs have thronged the venue each year to witness the festive celebrations at the romantic environs of Latasil Field.

The inception In 1952, a few likeminded people viz. Radha Govinda Baruah, Dr. Bhubaneswar Baruah, Atul Chandra Hazarika, Prabin Phukan, Shiroda Kanta Bishaya, Purushottam Das, Nip Baruah, Dhiren Baruah and several others conceived the idea of taking Mukoli Bihu to a stage format and thus Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani came into existence. However, the resolution of taking Bihu on to a stage was already in process a year prior to its inception. It was with the idea of promoting Bihu and the Assamese culture to the world that the decision was taken by these eminent personalities of the city. Over the years, there is no artist worth his craft that has not had the privilege of being a part of this Bihutoli. From doyens such as Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Khagen Mahanta to idols of today’s youth such as Zubeen Garg, Angarag Mahanta, a host of artists have left indelible impressions on the Bihu stage of Latasil.

The scenario back then It was for the first time that the forerunners had brought all the cultures of undivided Assam under one roof and provided a platform where artists could showcase their crafts to the people of Guwahati. The stage was also graced by performances of Moghai Ojah or Moghai Baruah along with several others who mesmerised the people with his dhol renditions. In the following year he was invited to perform in Moscow. Meanwhile, in the same year and along with the decision of taking Bihu to stage, the concept of representation of Bihu through a flag and an anthem also emanated. The responsibility of designing the flag was bestowed on Nip Baruah and thus the design of the Bihu flag hoisted now-a-days at all the Bihu conventions and Bohagi Bidai functions bore fruition at the hands of the eminent film-maker and director. Along with the flag the idea of creat-

The concept of holding competitions was only limited to sports till the year 1971 but with certain turn of events the idea of holding competitions germinated in the minds of the originators of Latasil Bihutoli. The mesmerising Bihu performance of Jaya Saikia in 1971 left her audience spellbound. So impactful was her performance that it created a deep impression in the minds of Radha Govinda Baruah, Pulin Das, Shiroda Kanta Bishaya, Dr. Bhupen Hazarika and those who were present at the venue. It was then decided that the performer should be awarded for her performance thus the title of ‘Sreshta Bihutoli Konwari’ – a term coined by Pulin Das, was awarded to the performer. After much discussion the title of Bihu Konwari came into being from 1972 onwards. The competition was upgraded to several levels such as Bihu Rani that came into being in 1982 and the much awaited competition of Bihu Samragyi incepted in 1985.

Culture and sports walk hand in hand Apart from the Husori, Bihu dance, etc., in the earlier times the actual merriment of Bihu lay in the various local sports and merry-making practices. Primary among these were the buffalo fight, wrestling, elephant fight, cock fight and egg fight. During the reign of the Swargadeos, these sports and merry-making activities received royal patronage and were embraced by all. Organizing sports activities like the horse race, wrestling, elephant race, etc. among the royal officers, soldiers and workers, the Ahom Swargadeos certainly displayed their love and affection for sportsmanship. The buffalo fight, egg fight, Bulbul fight, swimming, tree climbing and all sorts of other sports

activities came into vogue with Bihu as the pivot. Over the years the enthusiasm only grew stronger and the same was practiced by the architects of the Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani. It was also the vision of the originators of Latasil Bihu to promote sports among the new generation. During its initial years the celebration would hold competitions in disciplines such as sprint, swimming (that was earlier held in Brahmaputra River but was later shifted to Dighalipukhuri), horse racing and several other traditional sports. The sporting activities still see enthusiastic participation every year.

Words of the present president Kailash Sarma, President, Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani sharing his views on being a part of arguably the oldest Mancha Bihu, said that the main objective of organising Latasil Bihu has always been to bring all the cultures of the north-eastern states onto one platform. “During its early years artists from all across undivided Assam used to come to Latasil to showcase their culture and we are moving ahead with the same ideology. With a legacy of 66 years, we try to bring different cultures of the region and celebrate Bihu keeping all differences aside. Our political boundaries might differ but no boundaries exist when it comes to our culture. I feel privileged to be the president of a Bihu Sanmilani that has such a rich legacy,” Sarma said while expressing his views to G Plus. “We always welcome artists, consider each one of them as part of one family and want to promote our culture, artists and the talents of our state at international forums,” Sarma added. Since the demise of Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, the Latasil Bihu renders the song Manuhe Manuhor Baabe following the flag hoisting ceremony as a tribute to the legendary balladeer. In its attempt to keep traditions alive, Latasil Bihu observes celebration of the festival with people cleaning their cattle and decorating them with garlands as also giving them some special dishes. kalyan.deb@g-plus.in

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Special Bharalumukh 14 APRIL 9 AM Cultural Rally and Flag Hoisting by Dr. Amarjyoti Choudhury 6:30 PM Cultural evening. Special attraction: Bipun Saudang and Zubeen Garg th

15th APRIL 9 AM Sports for Children and women 11 AM Mou Konwari competition in two groups 6:30 PM Cultural evening featuring Simanta Sekhar 16th April 9 AM Sports for children and women 11 AM Jeng Bihu Competition 3 PM Fancy Dress competition 6:30 PM Cultural evening with special attraction Jina Rajkumari and Bhrigu Kashyap 17th April 9 AM Sports for children 6:30 PM Cultural evening featuring Jitul Sonowal, Dimpi Sonowal and Chandan Das

Zubeen Garg 14th April Noonmati 14th April Bharalumukh 17th April Azara 17th April Maligaon 19th April Ganeshpara 20th April Hengrabari 23rd April Kahilipara 24th April Beltola 27th April Borsajai

Chandmari 14th April 9 AM Flag Hoisting by Radhika Mohan Bhagawati, followed by the inauguration ceremony 10 to 11 AM Annual magazine release and stage inauguration 5:30 PM Cultural Evening 8 PM Srestho Husori Dol, Srestha Bihu Nasoni, Asom Bihuwa and Srestha Bihu Dhuliya competition 15th April 9 to 10 AM Sports and Art competition for children 5:30 PM Cultural Evening 9 PM Asom Bihuwati Competition 16th April 8 to 10 AM Marathon for men, sports competition 2 PM Jeng Bihu competition 5:30 PM Cultural evening 9 PM Priyanka Bharali 17th April 8 to 10 AM Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cycling competition and women activities 5 PM Prize distribution ceremony 5:30 PM Cultural evening 1O PM Bouquet of songs by Babu

Nahid Afrin 16th April Japorigog 24th April Goreswar

Latashil Zublee Baruah 16th April Kharguli 18th April Kulsi 23rd April Beltola

14th April 10:30 AM Flag hoisting by Arunami Bishaya in the presence of Chief Minister Sarbandanda Sonowal followed by Mukoli Bihu . Srimoyasomi to be sung by 66 artists. 11 AM Cultural program 5 PM Inauguration of cultural evening by Badal Das followed by song performance by Mousumi Saharia 15th April 10 AM Sport activities 3 PM Bihu Konwari and Bihu Rani competition 5 PM Cultural night featuring Dikhshu 16th April 10 AM Sport activities 3 PM Bihu competition 5 PM Cultural night featuring Anandita Paul 17th April 10 AM Sport activities 5 PM Cultural programs featuring performance of Bihu Samragyi of yesteryears 7 PM Bihu Samragyi competition

The Guwahati

Bihu Guide Noonmati 14th April Modern song and dance competition (Solo and Group) Cultural evening by Jina Rajkumari and Chayanika Bhuyan 15th April Culturally evening inauguration by Mukul Ch Gogoi, Secretary of Health and Family Welfare 16th April Modern songs competition, Jeng Bihu competition and Husori competition 17th April Special programme by specially-abled children in association with DY365 Padmanav Bordoloi and Sulekha Chettry led cultural night

Bornali Kalita 22nd April Bhetapara 23rd April Garchuk

New Guwahati 14th April 9 AM Cultural procession 10 AM Flag hoisting by eminent actor Pranjal Saikia 9 PM Performance by Jina Rajkumari 10 PM Performance by Chayanika Bhuyan 15th April 1O AM Sports competition 9 PM Performance by Dikshu 16th April 10 AM Sports competition 3 PM Bridal -wear competition 4 PM Jeng Bihu competition 6:30 PM Bihu Husori competition 9 PM Cultural night by Sajan Nayak 17th April 10 AM Sports competition 7 PM Cultural evening 8 PM Special performance by differently abled artists 9 PM Performances by Padmanav Bordoloi and Surekha Chettry

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Centre Spread

Battling the elem

Namami Br

It was a two-way street laced with bouquets and brickbats. The 5-day Namami Brahmap ground in terms of inking development possibilities for the whole state. Despite criticis the process. Approximately 8 lakh people thronged the festival braving the inclement w tion from all sources, it came to light that IAS officer Ashutosh Agnihotri and IPS officer A stellar show that has brought in unprecedented money for the state’s development. G

Questions 1

Please rate your experience of the festival Namami Brahmaputra?

Ashutosh Agnihotri:

AP Tiwari:

A very satisfying experience indeed. Something of this magnitude with such impact within such a short span of time has been very satisfying. Presumptuous of me to even think of rating it.

A marvellous experience! I should not rate it; a person should not rate his own product. Let others do it.

What are the three best things that happened in the festival? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

1) The huge public response. 2) Development of the river front and showcasing its permanent magnificence. 3) The creation of a positive brand.

AP Tiwari:

1) Very disciplined crowd akin to a temple in Rajasthan where lakhs come for worship and there i security bandobast. It was a unique example of self discipline despite the bad weather. No hue and c pedes, it’s a big example for the entire country. 2) Atithi deva bhava in full display; all outsiders were shown exemplary respect. 3) Complete, whole-hearted participation from all the social organisations, media and public. Hit or the issue. Organisations voluntarily coming forward maintaining discipline was huge.

What is the major outcome of the festival? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

We have been capable of branding Assam in a positive manner. We have created awareness about the river at the national and international level.

AP Tiwari:

Awareness! People sitting in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Chandigarh, wer ing about Namami Brahmaputra. People sitting in Dhaka, Kathmandu came he ways complain about lack of sufficient coverage. In the last 15 days it was only A Namami Brahmaputra which was searched and viewed in almost the entire count

Please tell us what kind of support you got from the central government, state government, your own team, public and the media? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

We got full support from the central government, the army, the other armed forces, IWAI, media and public. It was not an individual’s festival; it was a festival of the state government and went well with the help of all segments of our people. All credit to my team; they worked harder than I did. I think the media did a commendable job in covering both the positive and the negatives and criticism is always welcome.

AP Tiwari:

Central government’s support was obvious; you have seen number of cabinet ministe visited. The Prime Minister tweeted, the President was here. All the departments of sta ernment gave their support, whatever role and responsibility was given to whoever. ber of organisations distributed free water, many people decorated their houses. O the road of the venue many organisations undertook cleanliness exercises. Many med ple came forward and formed a group to assist Namami Brahmaputra.

What are the major challenges faced by you during the festival? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

The biggest challenge was the scale of the event. The second was the weather and crowd management. The third was to present and package the festival in such a manner that it addresses all components and it achieves the desired objective.

Ashutosh Agnihotri

10 AP Tiwari:

Weather which was changing from time to time, minute to minute.

11 Approximately what was the footfall during the festival and h Ashutosh Agnihotri:

The footfall on the first and third day was huge - by rough estimate it was around 2.5 to 3 lakhs. On the third day also it was around 3 lakhs. On the remaining days it was somewhere between 80,000 and 1 lakh. So approximately 8 lakh people. Plenty of visitors from Punjab, Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bengal, Uttar Pradesh; they came only after knowing about the biggest river festival.

It i hig fin

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Centre Spread

ments: the stars of

rahmaputra

putra festival was a challenge against the elements but the event broke unprecedented sm galore, the event managed to make headlines catching the imagination of people in weather. The politicos got footage like never before. But to all appearances and informaAnand Prakash Tiwari doggedly fought the elements, setbacks and pitfalls to put up the Plus interviewed the two gentlemen separately throwing the same questions to both.

& Answers 2

What were the key highlights of the festival? Please express with three points. Ashutosh Agnihotri:

This festival created a positive brand. It reached out to all major segments and clientele in the country. It was able to project and showcase the river and its potential very effectively.

AP Tiwari:

The huge participation of people showed that people want change, competitive atmosphere, branding, progress and a different direction. All promotional activities were maiden ventures; I hope it will go longer. Thirdly, many visitors were from outside Assam and came solely for the festival; this is my personal experience from my interactions. For the first time Brahmaputra has been projected in the entire country. Check Google and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see the interest that has been generated. The purpose has been served.

What are the three things you would like to improve or change next year? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

1) Weather needs to be kinder. 2) Public support needs to be stronger. 3) Media needs to be more understanding.

is hardly any cry, no stam-

AP Tiwari:

The timing. You learn a lot from a maiden venture. Some things need to be added and some excluded. It will be a much bigger and improvised version of Namami Brahmaputra next year.

r a flop is not

Ashutosh Agnihotri:

No. Neither me nor my team; we worked as tirelessly and as relentlessly as we ought to. The rains made our spirit stronger.

re discussere. We alAssam and try.

ters who tate gov. A numOpposite dia peo-

Did the rain dampen your spirit during the festival? AP Tiwari:

The rains were our USP. Someone is sitting in Delhi in 40 degree temperatures would want to go to Europe and then sees Assam. The rains made it more attractive.

How will you rate the services of your partners like the event management and the publicity partners? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

I would say reasonably ok. Could have been better but they did what they were mandated to.

AP Tiwari:

There is a system and mechanism through which they will be rated and at this stage I should not do this. But we will sit with all the members and key people of event management and publicity partners keeping bad weather, hailstorm and everything in mind. I will speak only after that.

What is the major take away of the festival and the lessons you might have learned? Ashutosh Agnihotri:

Any beginning is fraught with risks, challenges, shortcomings. I am very happy itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a very good beginning. Next year it will be much better. We have learnt a great deal within the short span of time. Take away lesson learnt would be a couple of things which would address the logistics part or arrangements part at the venue - maybe better facilities for media and better facilities for the people.

AP Tiwari:

Firstly, we have to discuss about timing. Secondly, we need a little more space. Thirdly, programme was very good. It was designed well but we may add a few other things which we will apprise later. Next time we will design a mechanism to make the festival more inclusive.

how many tourists thronged the event?

P Tiwari:

is very difficult to count and I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give you the number. Tourist data can be availed but at present I can say that air fare was much gher than normal time. Secondly, we have seen number of tourists and we have interacted. Thirdly, hotel occupancy was very high. The nal picture can be given only after assessment.

Anand Prakash Tiwari

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Damp weather dampens Bihu shopping; markets off to a slow start

Bazaar

Sangita Kalita

Given the inclement weather prevailing over the city over the past several days, the normal pre-Bihu shopping activities are yet to take off bringing a cloud of apprehension among the traders and retailers

The damp weather ensured that people stayed indoors rather than visiting markets | G Plus photo

ith Bohaag Bihu around the corner, the festival of harvest, besides bringing the soulful celebration of spring and joy, always gives an opportunity to every Assamese to head for the nearest market on shopping jaunts to grab their favorite apparels. Bihu is that time of the year when our local market is flooded with hand-woven traditional pieces of clothes like mekhela chador and gamocha. But, this year, with the onset of the month of April, the weather has been upsetting the Bihu spirit of both the shoppers and the market. Due to heavy down pour almost every day, the bad weather is proving to be a hindrance to the normal shopping sprees that is witnessed in this festive season. Speaking to G Plus, a salesman from Pragjyotish, a cooperative house of mekhela chadors at Panbazar, Guwahati said, “We are off to a slow start this season. The bad weather is resulting in a sluggish market. Nevertheless, we are still selling six to ten pairs of buw’(cotton weave) mekhela chadors every day. This year, there has been a growing demand of these buwa clothing sets. We are expecting the market to gain momentum from 7th April onwards.” He added, “Gamochas are the highest selling item during the Bihu season. Every variety of gamocha, be it Paani Gamocha, Phulam Gamocha or Gosai Gamocha, always tops the selling charts. Although the machine-made gamochas are cheaper, yet the local

hand-woven gamochas are always in customers’ demands.” On the other hand, the head salesperson of Kalpataru, Panbazar stated, “We are expecting the market to speed up once the rains stop. The price of the raw materials of the handloom industry has increased; hence there will be a change of prices of the local garments. Both paat (silk) and buwa mekhela chadors are in demand during the festive season. Yet, the buwa mekhela chadors of cotton are being purchased in bulk every other day.” He added, “We don’t encourage the sale of machine-made gamochas. It is taking over the local ones. Hence, I request all the customers to buy authentic, locally made, hand woven gamochas this Bihu season.” Ambari, Guwahati, which is one of the main hubs of all the handloom and textile goods and shops, was also showing the same dampened spirit in their outlets. Most of these outlets are still waiting for the weather to improve before introducing their fresh collection that is specifically targeted for the coming festive season. Speaking to G Plus, the head of sales of Purbashree said, “We are going to open the new stocks only when we will witness the market gaining some tempo. The constant heavy rain has made the sales of our outlet stagnant. This time, last year, the sale was quite good. We had a good selling period prior to the Namami festival. Jaapis, gamochas, tradi-

tional show pieces were sold out

in bulk.” She added, “This festive season we are offering flat 10% discount on every item. This offer is available from 1st till 14th of April.”

But there’s still plenty of time. The 10% flat discount will surely attract the customers. This year, the ready-to-wear mekhela chadors for children and the buwa

On the other hand, the head of sales at Artfed Jagaran seemed to be positive in spite of the bad weather saying that this year they are targeting sale of around 1 lakh gamochas all over Assam. He said, “Yes, the bad weather has definitely hit the Bihu market.

sets for women are in demand. Moreover, other than our 8 to 10 branches, we are also going to install mobile sale shops in greater Guwahati. Other than gamochas and mekhela chadors we also register a demand for traditional men’s jackets and Eri chadors.”

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Fun Horoscope of the week

With two planets flipping backward, including your ruler Mercury, you could find that delays are inevitable. Is this such a bad thing? A retrograde can provide an opportunity to go over ground already covered and make sure you’ve done a thorough job. You may emerge from this period much better equipped to succeed with your plans. On another note, a decision around a budding relationship could reach a critical phase and make you wonder whether you should commit or not.

It might seem as though you have to choose between your partner and family, which could bring your tactful and diplomatic side to the fore. The way you handle this could make the week much more pleasant. With both Mercury and Saturn turning retrograde this week, delays could occur regarding shared finances and communication matters. Take care when signing anything of importance. If purchasing big-ticket items, keep receipts and paperwork in case you need to return anything.

With a strong focus on your sector of routines, this can be a good time to restore order to your life and develop the habit of being as organized as possible. With a developing Full Moon in Libra, be prepared for one or two unexpected events that could bite into your usual schedule over the weekend. Cutting back on less important activities may be the way ahead for you. The cosmos is also suggesting you explore ways to get your finances in order.

You could be going over old ground again as Saturn turns retrograde on Wednesday. As this phase will last some months, progress could be delayed. However, doing the necessary work now and creating a sound structure for further development can assure future success. Mercury also turns retrograde this week, so remember to back up important documents on your computer and be careful when closing key deals. The developing Full Moon over the weekend can be great for partying!

As Venus is retrograde in your sector of personal finances, you might become more aware of how you’re investing your money and how you might save more in the future. And with Mercury turning retrograde this week, it might be wise to avoid purchasing any big-ticket items, at least for the coming three weeks. Enjoy a few small luxuries instead. Finally, you could feel put upon by the demands of a certain person. If so, all you have to do is say no.

Saturn turns retrograde in the topmost sector of your chart, so you might have to reconsider a plan or go over the details of a deal, and you could be busy with this all month. But view this as a chance to affirm that you’re on the right track. With a Full Moon building over the weekend, you could be encouraged to shop. If you do, be sure to keep receipts and paperwork in case you need to return something.

curio-city

Connect these pictures...

International Red Cross. Henri Dunant was the founder and the symbol of Red Cross was derived from the flag of Switzerland(which was inverted to get the symbol)

Picture Perfect

1.Ashanti 2. Guess! 3. Isaac Newton 4. Ayrton Senna, the Brazilian F1 legend. 5. Sexual harassment in the workplace.

You could be pitted against family members regarding a key decision this week, but this might be part of a bigger issue that may come into the spotlight as the week goes on. The way to handle this may be to put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Doing so should encourage discussion and help you reach a compromise. Your ruler Saturn turns retrograde on Wednesday, which could see you stepping up any opportunities for self-improvement.

3 6

2 6

8 7 4

1 7

6 5 2

9 4 9 1

2 8 9 7 4 7 6 4 7 5 9 11 6

4 1

9 2 8 2

7 9

9 9

6 5

Daily Sudoku: Thu 30-Mar-2017

1 2

9 3 2 7 7 34 18 66 81 25

4 1 5 9 3 8 6 94 27 83 75

6 5 7

As Mercury turns retrograde in the topmost sector of your chart, you might need to postpone one plan and perhaps research the details further. Though you’re likely eager to move ahead, it’s worth making sure that you have all the information you need before making your move. And while progress could be delayed in general, there is a strong sense of purpose running through your chart and life that could encourage you to persevere no matter what.

You could face opposition that causes your confidence to drop a little. However, with the Sun in fiery Aries, it might be time to take control by letting others know how you feel. There could be ways to compromise even if it means cutting back on your original plans. Even so, with both Mercury and Saturn turning retrograde this week, it’s best not to rush into anything. Take your time to make sure all the bases are covered. It’s the best way ahead.

Sudoku

Daily Sudoku: Wed 5-Apr-2017

2 4 3 8 6 41 97 15 29 78

1 6 8 3 9 5 5 47 39 76 24

5 9 7 6 8 1 3 25 18 44 63

3 7 5 2 1 4 2 4 1 9 8 9 68 5 75 8 27 6 96 3

6 8 9 4 2 77 33 24 95 11

8 7 6 5 5 62 21 49 13 94

1 2 6 3 5 8 Daily Sudoku: Thu 30-Mar-2017 medium 9 6 2 7 4 8 3 5 1 7 5 1 9 3 6 8 http://www.dailysudoku.com Word of the week4 2 4 3 8 2 1 5 7 9 6

Platitude

Daily Sudoku: Wed 5-Apr-2017

As Mercury, your personal planet, flips backward this week for a three-week stay, you might need to go over old ground again. But would this be such a bad thing? If obstacles keep cropping up in a key area, this could be a clue that something isn’t working. By revising your plans, you might be able to accomplish much more further down the line. Also this week, there could be a cause for celebration or a deeply romantic tryst.

As Mars powers through your sign, you may feel quite pleased with your progress to date. However, two planets turn retrograde this week, which could delay your plans. Mercury’s retrograde phase in particular could mean that you’ll need to hold back regarding one idea, as further information may be required. In addition, certain events have you feeling less confident than normal, particularly concerning a business matter. Doing the groundwork first can help restore your enthusiasm!

last week solution

Certain areas of your life might require rethinking in order to set matters right. Although it might be tempting to rush ahead, this may not be wise as Mercury and Saturn enter their retrograde phase. You now have an opportunity to iron out any obstacles to success, though. In addition, the developing Full Moon in your relationship sector could intensify feelings, causing one or two dramas unless you and another are ready to sit down and discuss the issue.

medium

noun [plat-i-tood, -tyood]

A flat, dull, or trite remark, especially one uttered as if http://www.dailysudoku.c it were fresh or profound.

Picture Perfect

Crossword

curio-city 1

The Bollywood movie Ashanti (1982) starring Zeenat Aman, Parveen Babi & Shabana Azmi was inspired by which hit TV series?

Guess the name of the fashion brand set up by Georges Marciano in 1981?

Whose last job was to be the Master of the Royal Mint?

The death of which popular sportsperson in 1994 led to setting up of new protocols in treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury(Head Injury) patients?

TheVisakha guidelines are used in which matter of graveimportance in India? Dr. Soubhadra Chakraborty (Quizmaster from Kolkata) This quiz has been brought to you by Brain Jam, a property of Priya Communications

Doonesbury by Garry Trudeau

Across

Down

1 Lake District lake (10) 7 Skittles (8) 8 Fly high into the air (4) 9 Sibilant sound (4) 10 Chide (7) 12 Basic (11) 14 Big cat (7) 16 Looped knots of ribbons — fiddlesticks! (4) 19 Advantage (4) 20 Opening (8) 21 Poacher’s foe (10)

1 Bounty captain (5) 2 Treachery (7) 3 Pen-name of essayist Charles Lamb (4) 4 Assembled (8) 5 Vertical part of a stair (5) 6 Wonder (6) 11 Wedlock (8) 12 Without restriction or interference (6) 13 Dance (3-4) 15 Penne, rigatoni, etc (5) 17 More certain (5) 18 Brazilian footballer, Edison Arantes do Nascimento (4)

Last week’s solution

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Trotter

Six-year-old girl hits crocodile with a bamboo stick to save friend

A Snake tries to eat a Porcupine, guess what happens

G Plus News

oa constrictors are known for being able to eat animals several times their own size. First, they wrap their scaly bodies around their prey, and then they squeeze with their powerful muscles until their meal stops breathing. Then the beast from your nightmare unhinges its jaw in order to swallow dinner whole. But what happens when these powerful snakes have eyes that are too big for their stomachs?

G Plus News

girl at a village in Kendrapara district saved her schoolmate from an estuarine crocodile attack in Odisha. Basanti Dalai, a Class 1 student is being treated at a hospital. She recalled the harrowing experience and thanked her schoolmate Tiki Dalai (6) for saving her from the reptile. The victim sustained multiple wounds on her hand and thigh but is said to be out of danger. Both the girls were taking a bath in the village pond on Tuesday when a crocodile leaped from the water and attacked Basanti. To save her friend, Tiki picked up a bamboo stick and dealt a blow on the reptile’s head. The reptile

then slipped back into the water. Tiki Dalai deserves praise for her bravery, a resident Pradip Kumar Das said. “The attack was so sudden that I had little time to react. The stick that was lying near the pond saved my friend,” Tiki, who is also enrolled in the village school, said. The state forest department would bear the cost of treatment of the girl injured following crocodile attack. The department would also award compensation sum to the injured person’s family as per revised rules, said divisional forest officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) forest division, Bimal Prasanna Acharya. (Source: HT)

Justin Trudeau says he wants to “punch” Chandler Bing; Matthew Perry responds G Plus News

27-year-old creates a homeless shelter for students G Plus News

ouis Tse, 27, lived in his car to save money while completing his doctoral studies at the University of California, Los Angeles. A duffel bag holding bottled water and non-perishable foods served as his kitchen. Family photos hung on the backseat windows. At night, Tse parked wherever he found an open WiFi network so he could do homework. “For young people who are experiencing homelessness, they could go to the nearest youth shelter, which is a two-hour drive away in Hollywood - or rough it out. That’s the path of least resistance,” Tse, now a thermal engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, tells Business Insider. He declined to comment on his current living situation. In October 2016, Tse and former classmate Luke Shaw opened up a student-run shelter for students

who are experiencing homelessness because of the sky-high costs of higher education. Students for Students , formerly known as the Bruin Shelter, provides them with a safe and supportive place to eat, sleep, socialize, and study during the academic year. The shelter has nine beds and welcomes college students from the Los Angeles area. Unlike traditional shelters, which use a lottery-based system to fill beds, Students for Students interviews applicants and offers a place to stay for up to six months. Breakfast and dinner are served family-style every day. There are 60 student-volunteers who keep the shelter running day and night. Medical and dental students from the university provide routine check-ups. Counseling is also available. (Source: Business Insider)

Look no further than a boa constrictor in Brazil that decided the nearest porcupine looked like the perfect snack without thinking much about the consequences until it was way too late. A video that was uploaded on Buzzfeed showed that the snake was covered in quills after the encounter, and the person who found it recorded it writhing in pain. You can find the video online. ( Source: Buzzfeed)

anadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and actor Matthew Perry, famous for playing Chandler Bing on the popular TV sitcom “Friends,” have some history. It is clear there’s at least one encounter with the “Friends” star that Trudeau has been holding onto for longer than a day, a week a month, or even a year — that time Perry picked on him in grade school. Two weeks ago, during an appearance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” the 47-year-old actor revealed what he described as a “terrible” encounter when he was a fifth-grader. “My friend Chris Murray, who was also in the fifth grade in Canada, reminded me that we actually beat up Justin Trudeau,” he admitted. As a 10-year-old — two years older than Trudeau at the time — Perry admitted he was jealous. Trudeau was excelling at a sport he wasn’t as good at. But Trudeau, now 45, apparently didn’t feel the love, and now that he’s all grown up, it seems like payback time. “I’ve been giving it some thought, and you know what, who hasn’t wanted to punch Chandler? How about a rematch @ MatthewPerry?” Trudeau tweeted on Saturday, which also happened to be April Fools’ Day. The tweet went viral with more than 12,000 retweets and 33,000 likes. Thousands of people

even jokingly made bets on who would be victorious. However, it looks like they’ll never get a chance to find out. Perry pulled a Chandler, politely passing on going up against the prime minister. “I think I will pass at your request for a rematch kind sir (given that you currently have an army at your disposal),” Perry replied on Sunday. After all, Perry gave Trudeau credit for taking the high road all of these years. (Source: CBS News)

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

G Talk E

Haste to waste

o the heavily opinionated, Namami Brahmaputra was a resounding flop. And frankly these opinions cannot be brushed aside. After all, a fair part of the festivities was held with public funds where the same public got the rawest deal in terms of merriment and enjoyment, literally getting soaked in the wetness of those days. Now, this entire doura-douri of holding this massive festival at the shortest of notices leads me to believe that the BJP is in a tearing hurry; the haste of the demonetization exercise was just the trailer. An exclusive G Plus story in the last edition carried details of how this festival was conceived by Sarba Da as late as November last – the event itself being hurriedly planned over the next two months to be held when it was. Now, it needs no huge knowledge of topography and meteorology to know that April can be the most weather-fickle month for Assam. Bihu after Bihu has been washed away over the years and our meteorology department has forever been manned by weathermen who never seem to forecast right. Covering up the foolishness of holding such a behemoth of a festival in haste by blaming the weathermen’s wrong forecast doesn’t alter the fact that the waste has been colossal. But let’s not fret. It is Rongali Bihu after all and time to pick out the positives from Namami Brahmaputra. Ponder over what we got in return, or will get! In an unprec-

edented gesture towards Assam, the Centre, during the course of the festival, has sanctioned approx. Rs. 1,50,000 crores for undertaking works of dredging the mighty Brahmaputra, building bridges, highways and other elements of infrastructure that is set to transform the very contours of the land. The massive dredging exercise will be undertaken with simultaneous construction of the highway along the Brahmaputra’s banks tremendously enhancing the travel experience. And if the exercise reins in the turbulence of our super river, I am not sure living here will be any different from living in paradise. Lovely thoughts and great stuff to look forward to! However, it is imperative to exercise caution and not be hasty in tinkering with Nature. The Brahmaputra is no great oaf that will permit the dredgers to plough its bed so easily. It will fight back, constantly replenishing what has been pulled out. Hence, planning the exercise and coordinating matters between related departments is of utmost importance. Nature has oft been witness to manmade interference leading to disastrous consequences. If the timing of the Namami fest and its outcome is any indication, this government just cannot to mess up a project of this magnitude. Let’s hope meticulous planning and detailing prevails – and the decision-makers keep their zeal under control. Swapnil Bharali Editor

GUWAHATI ADDA Two people engage in a conversation after the end of the recent Namami Brahmaputra festival which was ‘washed away.’ Amit: So the rain gods gave us ice and water in Guwahati, but banned alcohol on highways. What sort of a cruel joke is that? Inder: Yeah man, Indra is making us stay ‘in-doors’. Anyway, how’s life?

A season of hope? T

his spring, why am I filled with some random, uncomfortable thoughts…of hope??? My cuckoo called early this year – towards the end of January itself. For the 9 years that I have lived in verdant Kharguli, this is the first time it has signaled such an early spring. My cuckoo does not have the most melodious of cuckoo voices one might hear at the onset of spring. At best, it calls with a pronounced croak - much like a cuckoo that has a severe, perennial sore throat! The crows around here continue to abound giving me the sneaking suspicion that the cuckoo has thrived in continuing its legacy through murder. The crows have a long way to go in getting smarter at deciphering eggs! I am fervently hoping my cuckoo continues to croak and pass on its genes without its croakiness … A famous Asomiya parody back in the early ‘80s somewhat went: Tamul chibai chibai ke, condemn hoi gailey daat, lekin Bihu Bihu logisey hamri ko bhi gaat. The song had gained unprecedented popularity because of the Bihari-accented Asomiya it was sung in and the long standoffish Bihari-Asomiya assimilation, in one sense, seemed to be complete. The distortion of our culture though, if any, had never crossed our minds at that time and we did not even think of considering if our ethos was being compromised with. This time around though Bihu Sanmilanis are determined that matters remain Assamese – no other language than Assamese when it comes to the songs from the stage. No other dresses than Assamese when it comes to per-

forming on stage. The dissimilation just might stand complete and yet the hope remains that Assamese culture might find a new vibrancy … Why am I angry with the presence of the Hindu Bangladeshi in my neighborhood? Isn’t he as competent as his Muslim brethren that plough my paddy fields, work on my construction sites, water my lovely flowery compound and meet my freightand-cartage requirements? Isn’t he capable enough to slog for a pittance in the blazing sun or in the harsh winters, as his Muslim brother is? So, he is just an additional asset to the current political masters. Is that why I am angry? I guess I, the Asomiya, should fervently harbor the hope that our already torn social fabric will be stitched back with this latest demographic degeneration … A year ago Modi Sir came, spoke to large crowds and empowered Himantada to ensure victory. It was an “election-Bihu” year and it was just not a simple irony that both the elections and Bihu brought with them the emotional factor called hope - hope for change in one case but always hope for betterment in the other. Beyond the happy frivolity of our Bihu mood, we voted for change bestowing unto ourselves a lot of hope. We voted with the hope that our pathetic backwardness and our incomparability to the rest of the country will be addressed. I guess we are on our way: Namami, new-found Hindutva and all. We will be hoping to be true Indians for a while… Oh! My random, puzzling thoughts…. Am I sad in my own land, or am I hopeful of being happy?

Opinion

Swapnil Bharali

I am determined to be happier than this because it is Bihu time. And I hope to find ways of being so. I hope to seek the Zubeens and Papons, the Zublees and Dikshus on the performing stages of Guwahati that will make me delve deep into the richness of my language and culture. I hope to re-visit my youthful days when Rongali Bihu meant a proud recognition of being Asomiya. I hope to find cheer through the pandal-hopping romancing Asomiya youngster happily scouring the streets of Guwahati with his pretty damsel on his pillion. And I hope to relive the fact that Rongali Bihu is all about a variety of romance that is difficult to understand but easy to feel; that time of the year when love is always in the air. I hope to remain the optimist who never gives up hoping that things will be better than ever before - it is Bihu after all! Hope! That’s all I have, given my random uncomfortable thoughts. And why not? My hope gives me the power to believe – to believe that my cuckoo will call forever, to believe that the Asomiya in me will eventually be able to find the ideal streams of global assimilation, to believe that my country’s governance will be at its best sooner than later and finally to believe that Asom and its future residents will truly feel proud of the land that feeds them. Rongali Bihu is at hand/Just round the season’s main bend/ With promise of fun, happiness and gaiety/Songs, dances, flowers, music and bonhomie/Greetings of hope to one another we send… Hopeful I am - of celebrating Bihu…!!!

Amit: Nothing much man, no beef with anyone, just chilling, without any beer and definitely not getting high on the highway. Inder: Speaking of beef, you heard about the guys who were ar-

Letter to the Editor

rested for carrying beef in Jorhat? Amit: What!? They were carrying a protest out against the Government? Inder: No man, the meat wala beef.

Pun-niche’-ment

Amit: Hah! Both equally dangerous these days. Inder: Gives me the chills! I hate dietary restrictions. Speaking of chills, Bihu is almost here. I just hope our plans don’t get paani paani with this unpredicted rainfall. All this expensive pator kapur is going to be ruined. Amit: Chill yo, take a trip somewhere this Bihu. Upper Assam maybe? Inder: Man, everyone’s trippin’ these days. What will I do, take

r Wrong decision at wrong time

ith the new government at Dispur not even one year old and the entire state is reeling under the 15 year misrule of the previous dispensation, the prime focus of the new government should have been to clear the debris left by the previous regime. The state government’s decision to host the mega show in the name of Namami Brahmaputra at the cost of public exchequer is totally unacceptable. Apart from that the timing of holding such shows at this time of the year is also a matter of concern. Hailstorms, cyclones, etc. are normal phenomena during this period of the year. I, being a senior citizen, am hurt by the show of extravaganza by the BJP-led government. Now is a God-sent opportunity for the opposition Congress led by Tarun Gogoi and company to pounce on the government.

photos and upload on Facebook? I’m trying to quit Social media addiction *lights up a cigarette* SIDHARTH BEDI VARMA

Dr. Ashim Chowdhury, Ambari, Guwahati-1

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

In Focus

Meet I First Bihu Samragyi / Professor Dr. Rupa Deka Pator

he graceful and yet peppy gyrations of the Bihu dance makes it the crowning glory of the Bihu festival and several Nasonis (dancers) from all across the state gear up from months ahead to be part of the festival. This participation may be through various competitions or through Husoris or other forms of performance in various events. Over the years, the competitions held across the state have earned prominence among the Bihu boliya Assamese people and clinching a title is considered a feather in the cap. The most prestigious of these competitions is the Bihu Samragyi and the first dancer to claim the title was Dr. Rupa Deka Pator. A Nasoni by passion and an academic by profession, there was no title that Rupa left unclaimed before crowning herself with the one that is considered the most illustrious. Born in Noonmati to father Nar-

Bihutolis across the state through her spectacular Bihu dance. “Since I had my basic training in Sattriya my Bihu moves would reflect the classical dance form but under his guidance I learnt the true art of Bihu dance. We underwent such severe training; our bodies became almost like those spring dolls. However, I consider my mother to be my first teacher; my parents encouraged me throughout,” Rupa mentioned during a conversation with G Plus. Least aware of the laurels that she was going to achieve in the en Chanyears to come, dra Deka Rupa particand mothipated in the er Upama Bihu Konwari Deka, Rupa competition in had a culAzara in 1980 turally rich and claimed upbringing the title in her where the very first atprocess of tempt. Like it is grooming said, winning her talent takes talent, to Rupa being crowned Bihu Samragyi in 1982 had begun repeat takes at a tender character, Rupa age. Rupa’s mother, who was also her stands as the best example of the teacher, took to training her at the saying. After attaining her first ever tender age of 5 when she underwent Bihu Konwari title the eminent NasoSattriya dance training and soon her ni never looked back and went on a grace did not go unnoticed. By the spree of claiming titles at every postime she had reached 7th grade Dholi- sible competition that took place in ya Oja Dilip Gogoi came looking for the city. She carved her name in the her wanting to make her a part of his trophies of every Bihu she went to, group named Janata Silpi Sangha. be it Chandmari, Noonmati, BharaluThus began her journey of conquer- mukh, or any other Bihutoli that held ing the hearts of the people at the such competitions. While in some

Rs 1000 cr sanctioned for upgradation of Guwahati Airport

G Plus News

he terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati will be upgraded and its capacity raised from the existing 2,000 passengers to 6,000. Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary on Wednesday said the central government would

fund Rs 1,000 crore for upgrading the airport. “The LGBI Airport is international just in name. Only one international flight from Bhutan operates from it. We want to make the airport international in the true sense,” he said. The minister also said the civil aviation ministry would also pro-

vide a plot of land adjacent to the airport to the state government for setting up a warehouse which will help avail the flight cargo facilities. Addressing a press meet after the conclusion of the Namami Brahmaputra Festival, Patowary said once the Brahmaputra River is dredged, Assam “will be the hub of trade and investment.” “A tripartite MoU between Assam Government, IWAI and NHAI for dredging the river was signed yesterday. We have already surveyed some 300 km length of the river for construction of the proposed expressway along the banks using the silt that will be dug out of the river,” he said. A total of 841 km of the river from Dhubri to Sadiya will be dredged. The length of the expressway will be around 1,300 km and it will cost over Rs 40,000 crore.

Bihus she claimed the titles multiple times others barred her from participating a second time. Next in the books was the biggest title a Nasoni can ever take a shot at. It was in 1985 that the Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani organised the first ever competition of Bihu Samragyi and at the age of 15 Rupa made history in Bihu by becoming the first ever to achieve the title from among close to 50 participants. “My mother used to take me to the Bihu Rani and Bihu Konwari competitions where I saw dancers such as Manisha Das and Madhurima Choudhury and she used to tell me that I have to be a dancer like them. When the first Bihu Samragyi took place I became the first to claim the title. Although I had claimed the most illustrious title the urge to perform in more competitions still remained. Also I did not have the maturity level to properly react to the felicitation ceremonies. At a very young age I had to take the seat of a judge and besides my parents, there were several others like Maheshwar Baruah, Dilip Gogoi, my Guru in Sattriya Nritya, Ghanshyam Hazarika Deb who groomed me and helped me through,” the first ever Bihu Samragyi said. Winning the title changed her life by leaps and bounds. At an age when she was willing to participate in competitions, she had to judge others and coach others during workshops. Rupa lapsed into nostalgia while talking about Maheshwar Baruah who was a father figure to her and accompanied her to workshops across the state. A teenager with a simple background where art walks hand in hand

Guwahati boy makes it to Yale Young Global Scholars 2017 event

ratik Singh Saud, a student of class XI, Srimanta Shankar Academy, Guwahati, has been selected for the prestigious Yale Young Global Scholars 2017 event. He has been selected in the ‘Frontier in Math and Science’ session to be conducted from 19th June to 2nd July, and granted a scholarship of US$ 5,000. Each session at Yale has around 200 students from across the globe. Saud’s session will have 150 students from 150 countries and 50 students from the 50 states of the US. Pratik is the son of Ratan Saud and Kanmoni Kakati of Guwahati.

with culture Rupa started receiving movie offers. However, while Rupa’s parents were very encouraging about her art form they induced in her the consciousness of education at the same time. Rather than chasing the glamour of the films Rupa chose to pursue her education and like her knack in Bihu Dance she had equal forte in academics. Following her HSLC, Rupa went on to join Cotton College and obtained a first class degree and Masters in Assamese. The degree was followed by a Ph.D. Rupa’s eyes turned misty while sharing the story of her mother who wished to see her donned in the white coat of doctors but Rupa had other dreams to chase. “My mother wanted me to be a doctor while I always wished to be a teacher. She was upset on hearing my plan but I convinced her and promised her that I will get the doctorate title for her one day. The day when I got the degree she was so happy that she wanted to display a nameplate at the entrance of my house. She herself went and got the nameplate made. I strongly believe that one can be academically sound and pursue their passion at the same time. All we need is inspiration,” the professor mentioned. Rupa is an associate professor of Gauhati Commerce College and has been associated with the institution since 1995. Moreover she has several books to her name. She was the first one to write a poetry book in Lalung language. Along with serving her passion for Bihu and profession of being a teacher, Rupa is also a part of a happy family with husband Dilip Sarmah and is blessed with two children.

IIT Guwahati amongst top universities of the country

IT Guwahati has been ranked 8th amongst all the participating universities & Institutions in the NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework) Rankings and was placed at the 7th position among the top engineering institutions in India as per the same. The results were declared on Monday. The ranking was conducted by National Institutional Ranking Framework under MHRD, Govt. of India. Additionally, Gauhati University was ranked 43rd in the NIRF Rankings.

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Review Cast: Akshay Kumar, Manoj Bajpayee, Taapsee Pannu, Prithviraj Sukumaran Director: Shivam Nair

vie Mo view Re

lame this prequel on the media. Most critics who saw Neeraj Pandey’s action-drama, Baby (2015) praised agent, Shabana’s cameo in it. Her brisk action-sequence in a Kathmandu hotel room, when accompanying Ajay Singh (Akshay Kumar) on a mission, provided the required adrenaline-rush. Taking the praise to their heart, this time around, the makers dedicated 148 mins, to the spunky agent. The running time is the film’s first inherent flaw. That be as it may, empowering women has merit. So we will go along with the maker’s thought process in giving us this offering. Only wish Pandey (credited with story-screenplay-dialogues) hadn’t over-simplified proceedings. Here, the men (Manoj Bajpayee, Akshay (cameo) and other characters from Baby) are almost spoon-feeding Shabana. Such contrivances apart, when viewed as a stand-alone film, Shabana has some definite merit.

Straight away it reminds you how women are no longer helpless when teased by a bunch of drunken louts; or when brushed against accidentally in crowded spaces. They have enough and more in their DNA to give back as good as they get. A quick look at back-story of Shabana . Growing up she was scarred by an alcoholic father, who abused her mother. And she has spent time in a juvenile correction facility for accidentally killing her father. Instead of allowing this to mar her future, Shabana moulds herself differently from your average Seeta, Salma or Suzy. The first half indulges the protagonist and her love interest, Jai too much. It is only post-intermission, especially the last 35 minutes in which proceedings pick up. Sticking to a typical-action drama narrative that jumps from Mumbai to Goa, Vienna to Kuala Lumpur, with the arms dealer and the ISI agents playing a cat-and-mouse game, the film, is more an escapist fare than a realistic one.

Cast: Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, Rj Cyler, Ludi Lin, Becky G. Director: Dean Israelite

he film is more about a bunch of oddball teens than it is about colourfully suited karate-chopping superheroes. The first half is “The Breakfast Club” with way more extreme daredevil behaviour, as this posse of misfits discovers each other and stumbles into their startling new powers, by way of five colourful coins they happen to blast out of a mountainside. The explosives enthusiast is Billy (R.J. Cyler, who steals the whole movie), a neuro-diverse nerd who befriends disgraced football captain Jason (Dacre Montgomery) in detention. Also on the mountain that day are rebellious former cheerleader Kimberly (Naomi Scott), heavy-metal yogi Trini (Becky G.) and adrenaline-addled delinquent Zack (Ludi Lin). Soon they’re being groomed by a 65-million-year-old alien, Zordon (Bryan Cranston, no really), and a sassy robot, Alpha (Bill Hader), to take on Rita Repulsa (Elizabeth Banks), who plans to use Goldar the gold monster to steal Earth’s life crystal.

Album You Only Live 2wice By Freddie Gibbs

reddie Gibbs is a rapper’s rapper, the type of technically virtuosic musician whose sheer, unflagging invention can almost wear your ear down. For those who don’t rap—which are most people, presumably—it can be hard to even keep up with the byzantine, arcing structures of his rhyme schemes, his unconscious breath control, the way he varies his delivery and syncopation to every drum pattern or sample. You Only Live 2wice functions as an absolute firehose of dazzlingly dense verses—it’s hard to imagine him going for much longer than its 30 minutes, though you know he could—as well as a

vie Mo view Re

The actual power ranger-ing in the movie is blessedly short, focusing more on character and team building. It’s a good thing, because director Dean Israelite and cinematographer Matthew Lloyd have a chaotic approach to shooting action. We are denied a good morphing’ sequence though, which was the best, most memorable part of the series. Joseph Kahn’s “Power/Rangers” short film that popped up online in 2015 showed just what a truly dark Power Rangers project could look like, but this version of the “Power Rangers” is about as dark as a CW series: just enough to be taken (somewhat) seriously, but with enough of a sense of humour about itself to have some fun, too. Even if you have mixed feelings about the new suits and other shortcomings, Power Rangers will leave fans feeling sentimental. “Power Rangers” maintains the essence of its origins in that it’s rather pleasantly bonkers. It errs on the side of goofy rather than gritty.

showcase for some of the strange new ground he’s charting. On “Andrea,” the words tumble out at a pained gasp, charting out a wild, jazzy tonal space not unlike Future or Chance The Rapper, while on “Phone Lit,” he skews his voice into a breathy, smeared wash, performatively evoking the blazed romance of the lyrics. In the album’s final moments, Gibbs directly reflects upon his brief incarceration, but the preceding album isn’t some haunted reflection on crime and punishment. It sounds instead much more like an artist stepping back into his old pocket with great relief and delivering the verses he feared he’d never be allowed to.

ake a seat, grab your gamepad and Rift, and prepare for a journey a couple miles deep in the Pacific Ocean with Narcosis, a new VR experience from developer Honor Code. As it turns out, Narcosis doesn’t have a great deal of gameplay mechanics to it, but it’s compelling enough in other ways to make it well worth playing. You are an engineer or technician in a deep sea operation for the company known as Oceannova. Your part of a crew of about thirty people that one day are struck by the aftershocks of an earthquake which destroys underwater facilities and floods them. At the time, you are in a deep sea diving suit,

Poorna 11:30 AM Naam Shabana 02:00 PM Baahubali: The Beginning 05:00 PM Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 11:00 AM gold mine 7d 10.00 AM haunted house 7d 01.00 PM 04.00 PM Forest Adventure & Aero Bike 7D 03.00 PM 07.00 PM

PVR Cinemas Dona Planet 08800900009 Beauty And The Beast 10:00 AM Naam Shabana 10:00 AM 03:45 PM 09:10 PM Baahubali: The Beginning (Part I) 12:40 PM 06:00 PM Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 01:00 PM 09:00 PM The Boss Baby 03:50 PM Mukti Bhawan 06:45 PM

Galleria Cinemas HUB 097069 89143 Naam Shabana 10:00 AM 03:10 PM Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 12:45 PM 09:00 PM Baahubali: The Beginning (Part I) 06:00 PM

Game Narcosis Platform PC

u Yo LD OUAY H S PL

Anuradha Cineplex Noonmati 03612656968

Grande Cines Paltan Bazar 09854017771 u Yo LD OUay H S Pl

returning from a job in the field. What was a typical day is now completely up-ended and you must seek to survive, and see if any of your fellow crew managed to survive as well. Threats include running out of oxygen, long falls into the abyss, and some sea creatures like squid and large spider-crabs. You have a knife at you disposal for slow slashes that you have to time well, but these aren’t going to help against the large spider-crabs that can poke right through that titanium suit of yours. You have to avoid those creatures when possible by keeping a wide berth around them or using your flares to distract them.

Baahubali: The Beginning (Part I) 11:00 AM 05:15 PM The Boss Baby 12:00 PM 04:30 PM Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 02:00 PM Naam Shabana 02:15 PM 06:30 PM 08:30 PM

Apsara Cinema Paltan Bazar 0361 2541335 Baahubali: The Beginning (Part I) 11:00 AM 05:15 PM Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 02:00 PM

Pragjyoti Cinema Maligaon 0361 2570777 Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laaddoo Deewana 02:00 PM Baahubali: The Beginning (Part I)05:00 PM

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Lifestyle

VAASTU SHASTRA

The Power Of Self Reflection

THE KALASHA (POT) WORSHIP

Kasturi BorKotoKi Kasturi is a palette knife artist and tell you, if someone insults you, criticizes you, let them be! How paints impressionist floral designs much harm can they do? Let them goinahead insult as much oils. She and hails from Guwahati. Blog: kasturiscanvas.blogspot.com as they can. Next time, tell them, “My dear, go ahead and insult

me as much as you want. I will not change regardless of how much KasHmiri you want to criticize me”. Face it with courage. BenatH strong, do not run Foodie, owner at XOXO cupcakes, away from it. Stand tall before them and let them insult as much food blogger, recipeyou developer and expert on Assamese cuisine. as they can. See, you should respond to an insult with a smile. A person of true patience and courage is one who can respond to any insult KuLKuL raHman or criticism with an unshakeable smile. A real saint is one who Entrepreneur, mother and a responds to a gunfight with bouquets of flowers. passionateThe cook.sign of an intelligent person is one who can respond to taunts and criticism with humour and wit. If you also get angry with someone who comments on you or taunts you, then that is not intelligent behaviour your part. Hemanta Kumar on sarmaH Businessman, Advanced The sign of intelligence is to transform anEngineer, unpleasant situation into a Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acuprespleasant one. That is what the intelligent sure ones do. One who searches specialist. for pleasantness even in unpleasant or unfavourable situations is truly sHri sHri ravi sHanKar an intelligent person. Founder- Art of Living Foundation.

Life’s Canvas

Colours of Bihu

ihu is one word which awakens every Assamese! Every Rongali Bihu I remember my childhood days. We would get ready for the festival from at least a fortnight earlier, if not more. Buying new clothes for everyone, making pithas (Assamese sweets) and planning activities for the Bihu holidays are some of the things associated with my memories. Once the festival arrives, we would be busy with the rituals, food and in the evenings, visit the Bihutolis (open air Bihu functions). I don’t think much has changed over the years save for the fact that the merriment and the fanfare have multiplied manifold. I had painted this artwork especially for a Bihu album launch a few years back. It depicts all the pertinent things associated with the festival. For those who came in late,

Bihu is a festival of Assam (Indian state) which is held in the Spring season, and is also the Assamese new year. This festival marks the beautiful greenery and lush new blossoms of the season. People make merry and indulge in gaiety and romance. The leftmost corner of the painting depicts the ‘Japi’, a traditional Assamese headgear, used for decoration (not worn as a headgear though). It’s made of bamboo and leaves of certain trees and is usually yellow in colour with bright red and green cloths. It is used as an accompaniment in the Bihu dance, which is the highlight of the Bihu functions. The rightmost corner of the painting depicts the Assamese orchid, ‘KopouPhool’, or the foxtail

e have seen that in most of our weddings, Vaastu pujas, housewarmings and religious rituals, the Kalasha is worshipped at first. A kalasha is a brass, mud or copper pot which is filled with water. Mango leaves are placed in the mouth of the pot and a coconut is placed over it. A red or white thread is tied around its neck or sometimes all around it in an intricate diamond-shaped pattern. When the pot is filled with water or rice, it is known as purnakumbha representing the inert body which, when filled with the divine life force, gains the power to do all the wonderful things that makes life what it is. It is placed near the entrance as a sign of welcome. It is also used in a traditional manner while receiving holy persons. Why do we worship the kalasha? Before the creation came into being, Lord Vishnu was reclining on His snake-bed in the milky ocean. From His navel emerged a lotus from which appeared Lord Brahma, the creator, who thereafter created this world. The water in the kalasha symbolizes the primordial water from which the entire creation emerged. It is the giver of life to all and has the potential of creating

innumerable names and forms, the inert objects and the sentient beings and all that is auspicious in the world from the energy behind the universe. The leaves and coconut represent creation. The thread represents the love that “binds” all in creation. The kalasha is therefore considered auspicious and worshipped. The waters from all the holy rivers, the knowledge of all the Vedas and the blessings of all the deities are invoked in the kalasha and its water is thereafter used for all the rituals, including the abhisheka. The coconut is very much a part in all kinds of pujas in our society. When kept on Ghatas or earthen pots, it is also worshipped as a form of Lord Ganesha. It is also called Shreephal which means the fruit of Lakshmi. Worshipping the coconut can also rectify Vaastu defects and bring in positive energy. The consecration (kumbhaabhisheka) of a temple is done in a grand manner withBorKotoKi elaborate rituals Kasturi Kasturi a palette kalashas knife artist andof including the pouring of one oris more paints impressionist floral designs holy water on the top of the temple. the asin oils. She hails When from Guwahati. kasturiscanvas.blogspot.com uras and devas churned theBlog: milky ocean, the Lord appeared bearing the pot of nectar, which blessed KasHmiri natH one with everlasting life. Foodie, owner at XOXO cupcakes, food blogger, recipe developerMen and The kalasha also symbolizes immortality. expert on Assamese cuisine. of wisdom are full and complete as they identify with the infinite Truth (poornatvam). They are KuLKuL raHman greeted with a purnakumbha (“full pot”) acknowlEntrepreneur, mother and a edging their greatness and passionate as a sign of respect and cook. reverence, with a “full heart”. Hemanta Kumar sarmaH Engineer, Businessman, Advanced Pranic Healer and Su Jok Acupressure specialist. sHri sHri ravi sHanKar Founder- Art of Living Foundation.

orchid and it blooms in abundance during the season. It is used as a decoration in the hair bun of the Bihu dancer while she is performing the dance. At the bottommost right hand corner is the Gamocha or the Assamese towel. It is a versatile piece of cloth, used right from a gift of respect or greeting to a special or revered person to using it as a towel for daily use. During Bihu festival, it is used as a gift for friends and family, to extend wishes for the New Year. Over the years, in Mumbai, I have come to be known as the go-to person for Bihu dance and Mekhela Chadors (traditional Assamese dress worn by women). I am happy to know that Bihu has come to be known by other communities and the appreciation for the dance and the dress is immense. The best way for an artist to get into the mood of the festival is to paint it and that’s exactly what I did! Kasturi Borkotoki Kasturi is a palette knife artist and paints impressionist floral designs in oils. She hails from Guwahati. Blog: kasturiscanvas.blogspot.com

Sharpness Control for your TV

f you turn up the sharpness control on your TV, you’ll get a sharper picture, right? Nope. In fact, it’s the opposite. Sharpness is found among the basic picture settings on every TV, and it’s very name seems to encourage you to turn it all the way up. After all, who doesn’t want to see the sharpest, clearest most detailed picture possible? The problem is that the sharpness control itself doesn’t really do anything to increase detail, and can often obscure that detail behind a mask of artificial-looking enhancement. You should almost always turn it all the way down, especially with high-quality sources like Blu-ray discs, HDTV broadcasts, video games, some HD streaming services, and so on.

Here’s why. Sharpness is edge enhancement. On nearly all TVs, the sharpness control adds something called “edge enhancement.” That’s exactly what it sounds like. The edges in the image are enhanced, essentially by adding a thin outline or halo to them. This makes them more visible. The problem is, that halo shouldn’t be there and it’s replacing what should be. In this image it may not seem like a big deal, but with most content that halo is covering the actual detail in the image. In addition it often brings out grainy noise in other parts of the image. Edge enhancement definitely gives the image a certain look. It can even provide the appearance of more detail. Most TVs have their sharpness controls turned up by default, so we’re used to this enhanced faux-detail look. (Source: CNET)

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Entertainment

Dikchow Banat Palaax adds another feather to its cap

Shillong lad debuts a single in New York G Plus News

G Plus News

Receives Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration in 64thNational Film Awards

ritically acclaimed Assamese feature film Dikchow Banat Palaax, which was released in September last year has been awarded the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration in the 64th National Film Awards. Produced by Assam Film (Finance & Development) Corporation Ltd. and Utpal Kumar Das of Canvascope, Dikchow Banat Palaax was written, scripted and directed by National Award winning filmmaker Sanjib Sabhapandit. Utpal Das, Executive Producer ofDikchow Banat Palaax, says, “I

am feeling elated at the moment. My heartiest gratitude to the Assam Film Finance Development Corporation for the financial assistance provided to our film. The award is for all the hard work of my director Sanjib Sabhapandit, cinematographer ParasherBaruah, Editor Saurabh Dutta, Debajit, Dilip, Chinmoy, Mala and all others including the light boys. My special thanks to veteran actor Kulada Kumar Bhattacharjee for his outstanding performance in this film.” “Actually, Sanjib and I were planning a love story in the film.

Jury saw this film from a different angle, probably because of the Nagaland factor. Anyway, we shall be very happy if this film can help in developing a cordial relation with our Naga brothers and sisters”, he adds. Dikchow Banat Palaax explores the relationship of a freedom fighter and a Naga woman through decades of separation. Set in 1946, the film portrays the journey of a young Assamese man, who is banished from his home district by the British Empire, as he wanders to the Naga Hills. Love blooms as a Naga damsel gave him a few coins for his sustenance. But the love birds get separated, until the protagonist recollects memories of his past in the year 2000, when he decides to revisit the place just to return those coins to the lady. Canvascope, a film production banner by Utpal Kumar Das, has produced many critically acclaimed feature films like Jaangfaai Joonaak, Jeeyaa Jurir Xubaax and several short films and documentaries. An engineer and real estate businessman, Das is also an art enthusiastic and has promoted several art projects.

n a significant development for contemporary rock music featuring Indian musicians on the global stage, Rock Capital of India, Shillong’s own Hammarsing Kharhmar Sawyan debuted his single “No One There” in New York. The single was premiered exclusively by Rolling Stone on the 5th of April 2017 and features the Strokes lead singer Julian Casablancas, who’s only last collaboration outside of Stokes was with Daft Punk for their Grammy Winning Album (Random Access Memories) in 2014. “No One There” an ethereal track marked by Hammarsing’s fluid, dissonant lead guitar lines” as described by Rolling Stone was written and composed by Hammarsing and is one of the four songs from his EP titled ‘Last Dance’ which will be released next Tuesday the 18th of April by Cult Records. Hammarsing was signed by the highly respected Cult Records, an independent US based record label on the 13th of March 2017. About Hammarsing Kharhmar Hammarsing Kharhmar grew

up in Shillong, in India, known for its rolling hills and waterfalls. Kharhmar learned guitar there before he moved to Boston and started the New Wave group Mon Khmer, whose hypnotic psychedelia incorporates rock, jazz and pedal-steel sounds. Kharhmar later joined Strokes guitarist Albert Hammond Jr.’s solo band in 2008, playing on 2015’s Momentary Masters and another Hammond LP, out this fall. Now, Kharhmar is working with a different Stroke: Julian Casablancas, who is releasing Kharhmar’s first solo EP (under the pseudonym Exhibition), on his Cult Records label. Casablancas also appears on the release – something he rarely does outside of Daft Punk. Casablancas sings on “No One There,” an ethereal track marked by Kharhmar’s fluid, dissonant lead guitar lines. Writing from the road, where he and the Strokes just played to 90,000 fans in Argentina, Casablancas tells Rolling Stone he wanted to put out the album to help “a guy from a tiny corner of India’s rock & roll dreams come true.”

A look back at Assamese Classics- A series of old movies for the readers with a story, its origin, its cast and its relevance to contemporaries. Synopsis

trip. The other children were ada- during the trip and he left no stone mant in taking him with them. They unturned to humiliate Akon. Abir’s Akon, an orphan lived with his came up with a plan; they would not statements made no difference to Grandmother in the quarters of the leave Akon behind and hence each of Akon’s behaviour; rather he took all deputy commissioner’s campus. His the humiliation sportingly. them contributed for him. father used to work there and so In due course of time Abir slipped The children started their journey even after his father’s death, Akon from a cliff and Akon came to and his grandmother continued to his rescue. He managed to live there. Akon (1980 - Color) save Abir but in the proAkon was popular among cess, himself fell from the the children in the locality. Banner: G.B.C. Productions. cliff to his death. Every kid liked him and enjoyed Producer: Chiranjilal Choudhury. Back home, Akon’s playing with him. Children begrandmother lost her only ing inquisitive by nature, they Story, Direction: Gauri Barman. grandson and was left all came up with a brilliant idea of Music: Dr. Bhupen Hazarika. alone in this ruthless world. spending their vacation travelBut the other children ling to different parts of Assam, Cast: Biju Phukan, Bijoy Shankar, Mehtab Huscame to her and consoled exploring its culture, history sain, Girish Choudhury, Bhupen Hazarika etc. her saying that they were and heritage. all her grandchildren too and Their parents were quite supshe would never be alone. and visited all the important places portive as well and made all arrangeThe film, Akon, was the first Asof Assam. During this trip Akon was ments. School teacher, Dibakar, on very helpful to all. Simple Akon was samese children’s film. It was a story request of all the parents agreed that depicted the angel in a child. an angel in disguise. to travel with them. But poor Akon His popularity made Abir jealous could not afford to contribute for this

Mirza Arif Hazarika

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Events

Hridoy Goswami (L), Simanta Choudhury (C) and Amitabh Baruah (R)

A glimpse of the Ladies at Ladies Night

Venue: NYX Palacio Acoustic Nights with Spreading Roots and Ladies Night at NYX.

They’ve newly introduced Karaoke Nights on Thursdays! Be sure to check it out. One shot complimentary with every song!

Always on their toes!

BollyBuzz Bollywood actress, Radhika Apte was here in the city to unveil the Senco Gold and Diamonds’ exclusive collection crafted with Forevermark diamonds in Guwahati on Friday.

Let’s give it up for Azeem Banatwala in the house!

Venue: Terra Mayaa Date: 31st March

Cometh The Hour was 60 minutes of stand up comedy by Azeem Banatwala of East India Comedy fame. The perfect end to a Friday night.

Scan the QR Code and get the GPlus app  facebook.com/guwahatiplus  twitter.com/guwahatiplus  www.g-plus.in

G PLUS APR 08 - APR 14, 2017

Catching Up Most shared story of the week

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ecause his stature as the reincarnation of Lord Buddha demands it, Dalai Lama’s visit to the city stirred up major reactions from all over the globe. However, in another revelation, Dalai Lama met and embraced a ‘friend’ on stage amidst hundreds of people, a person who was none other than an Assam Rifles soldier who escorted The Dalai Lama when he entered India for the first time in 1959 at Indo-China Border at Arunachal Pradesh.

PIC OF THE

WEEK

Jenisha Kalita

New

Chick About Me

on the block

Hello readers! I am Jenisha Kalita, a 22 year old girl from Guwahati, Assam. I am currently pursuing my graduation in Economics from Handique Girls’ College. I am also graduate in Sattriya dance and after performing in numerous state and national level platforms, dance has become my passion. Mojo Being the curious self I like experimenting with whatever comes in my way, modelling and drama being two of those few things. I want to inspire the society with my passion. Route in the Woods Being the typical 22 year old girl I surely have high aspirations which I am trying to achieve with the blessings and support of my parents and well-wishers. Lastly, i want to wish everyone from Assam and all over A very Happy and Prosperous Rongali Bihu.

The divinity of calmness | Photo: Surajit Sharma

Photography by: Dipankar

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