01/02/2026
Souvenir “Koliya Bhomora” Released at Kaziranga Cultural Programme
Kaziranga, Jan 31:
Rangali Aidew Tai Cultural Study and Development Centre organised a significant cultural and intellectual programme at Tribal Treats, Bogorijuri, Kaziranga, on 31st January, marking the formal release of the souvenir “Koliya Bhomora” along with deliberations on heritage, sustainability, and community development.
The programme was inaugurated by Shri Arun Vignesh, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer and Deputy Director, Kaziranga National Park & Tiger Reserve, who formally opened the event by cutting the ribbon. His presence highlighted the close linkage between cultural heritage and environmental conservation in the Kaziranga region.
The souvenir “Koliya Bhomora” was formally released by Dr. T. P. Saikia, Chief Scientist, Assam Agricultural University – Sugarcane, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Buralikson. In his address, Dr. Saikia spoke on the historical importance of Koliya Bhomora Borphukan, focusing on his life, struggles, leadership, and relevance in contemporary Assam. He also referred to Rangali Aidew and its place in Tai Ahom cultural memory.
Dr. Saikia appreciated the initiative of the organising NGO and acknowledged the dedicated efforts of Shri Biren Gogoi, President, and Shri Lohit Gogoi, General Secretary, for conceptualising and executing the programme. He noted that releasing the souvenir on the occasion of Me-Dam-Me-Phi, the Tai Ahom ancestral remembrance day, added special cultural and historical significance to the event.
Shri Damodar Boruah, Chief Editor of Koliya Bhomora, explained the editorial journey of the souvenir. He stated that the publication was initially planned under the title Koliya Bhomora Borphukan but was later renamed Koliya Bhomora to ensure wider participation, inclusiveness, and historical balance. He highlighted the challenges of research, documentation, and coordination involved in bringing together diverse contributions.
The programme featured deliberations by several experts, including Shri Chandrakanta Das, representative of North Eastern Development Finance Corporation Ltd. (NEDFI); Shri Ratul Neog of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sivasagar; Shri Pranjal Pratim Dutta, Professor; and Shri Debojit Gogoi, known for promoting Banyan tree plantation in Assam. Speakers stressed the importance of practical, field-based projects, especially for the revival of Eri and Muga sericulture, bamboo-based bioeconomy, and farmer-oriented initiatives.
The souvenir Koliya Bhomora carries around 35 articles contributed by writers and scholars from Assam, other parts of India, and abroad. The publication covers a wide range of themes including Ahom administration, Eri Polu and Muga silk, Assamese traditional jewellery, bamboo-based economy, culture and peace, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), orchids and banyan trees, heritage-based food and health practices, medicinal herbs of the North-East, women empowerment, and creative literary expressions.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by the organisers to continue initiatives that integrate heritage, environment, agriculture, and sustainable development, positioning culture as a living force in contemporary society.