Spotlight on Dhulia: A Glimpse into Assam's Cultural Past

A documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting our age-old cultural heritage. 'Dhulia Culture of Old Kamrup (Assam)' – a 26-minute documentary exploring Assam's traditional folk art form – has been captivating audiences and critics alike at various film festivals. Researched, produced, and directed by Dr. Aparna Buzarbarua under the banner of Rohini Production, the documentary delves into the intricate tapestry of Assam's rich and vibrant traditional folk art.

It is our utmost priority and obligation to strengthen and elevate our age-old cultural heritage. Responsible members of society must protect and keep our culture alive through preservation. Unfortunately, the Dhulia culture of Assam, an age-old folk art, is rapidly diminishing due to dwindling interest and distaste among young people, amidst the onslaught of modernization and Western culture.

"I have tried to highlight the past and present forms of Kamrupia Dhulia culture, various problems plaguing the community, etc., through the documentary. It is crucial that we preserve this unique culture properly," Dr. Aparna Buzarbarua said.

An ancient art form, dating back to the Vedic era, the Dhulia culture's origins can be traced to the choirs and puppet shows performed in ancient India. During the Middle Ages, two types of art forms and dramaturgy flourished in India: Sanskrit and folk. The folk-based performances, which predate the Sanskrit ones, are believed to be the roots of many subsequent popular folk art forms, including the Dhulia culture of Kamrup. Initially confined to temples, Kamrupia Dhulia performances later became prevalent in various public meetings and religious ceremonies.

A group performance, Dhulia culture includes drumming, singing, dancing, acrobatics, satirical skits, dramas, and circus elements. Each group consists of seven to ten drummers, accompanied by various traditional instruments like cymbals and a fife. Acrobats in each group perform 20 to 25 stunts, similar to those found in a modern circus. The documentary showcases performers demonstrating rare expressions of strength and agility, such as holding and spinning a bicycle with their teeth.

The songs and skits are self-composed and folk-based. The skits, performed in the colloquial language, have found instant appeal with audiences due to their engaging qualities.  

'Dhulia Culture of Old Kamrup (Assam)' focuses on the origins and evolution of the art form, as well as its current position in Assamese culture. Traditionally transmitted from one generation to the other, Dhulia culture is facing a decline in interest among young people.

Central to the narrative is the life and legacy of late Mohan Chandra Barman, affectionately known as Mohan Bhaira, a renowned Sangeet Natak Akademi Awardee drummer and actor dedicated to Kamrupia Dhulia culture. A revered figure of the Dhuliya community, Bhaira joined a Dhulia group at the age of four. A visionary well-versed in all aspects of society, Bhaira was considered the most creative performer who elevated the traditional Dhulia culture to national prominence.

Drummers often face financial hardships, relying on odd jobs for their livelihood. Bhaira himself endured extreme financial difficulties throughout his life. He mostly performed in festivals or on special occasions, and during the rest of the time, he cultivated and took care of poultry.

The documentary aims to bring attention to the performing artistes from less privileged backgrounds and communities who have survived the onslaught of modernity and commercialization. "The film sheds light on their struggles and triumphs with the pertinent aim of igniting a renewed appreciation for their artistry," Dr. Buzarbarua said.

This documentary has been targeted to people across India and beyond with the hope of finding stakeholders who would support the artistes and help revive their glory.

Dr. Aparna Buzarbarua deserves immense praise for bringing the unique Dhulia culture of Kamrup to the limelight through this documentary. An accomplished music composer, Dr. Buzarbarua made this documentary with funds received from the Silpi Award conferred by the state government in 2022.

'Dhulia Culture of Old Kamrup (Assam)' has received official selections to various festivals in the country, even bagging the Best Documentary Award at the International Short Film Festival Award held in Kolkata. The award serves as a significant recognition of Assam's rich cultural legacy.

Born and brought up in a culturally enriching environment in Tezpur, Dr. Aparna Buzarbarua started her illustrious career as a Botany teacher at Cotton College in 1969. A Visharad degree holder in sitar from Bhatkande Sangeet Vidyapith, Lucknow, Dr. Buzarbarua has been practicing Hindustani Classical music on the Sitar since 1971. She has composed over 100 songs, collaborated with eminent lyricists, and is the first recognized female music director of AIR Guwahati. She has also authored several books.

Dr. Buzarbarua has contributed to the construction of a beautiful library built in memory of her husband Nagendra Nath Buzarbarua at Kanya Mahavidyalaya in Guwahati's Geeta Nagar.

'Dhulia Culture of Old Kamrup (Assam)'s technical director is Manash Hazarika, who has also scored the background music. The editing has been done by Antareep Hazarika, the cinematography by Sazzad Hussain, and the film's coordinators by Hirak Jyoti Sharma and Antara Buzarbarua. The camera operators are Jishan Mandal and Avinash Chowdhury.