1. Bihu Geet
    • Bihu is the heart and soul of Assamese culture, and Bihu geet are the songs sung during this vibrant festival.
    • These songs celebrate life and often revolve around themes of love.
    • Bihu geet performances feature energetic hand movements, brisk steps, and hip sways, performed by the youth.
    • Husori is a subset of Bihu geet, sung by groups of boys and young men, sometimes led by older men, moving from house to house, singing and dancing in courtyards.
    • Unlike Bihu geet, Husori focuses on religious themes and prayers for the well-being of people, often collecting donations for the village Namghar (community prayer hall).
  2. Kamrupiya Lokageet
    • This popular form of folk music originates from lower Assam and evolved during the reign of the Kamrupa Kingdom.
    • Kamrupiya Lokageet reflects various human emotions, particularly those of common people.
    • It is known for its rich musical style and has been passed down through generations.
  3. Goalporiya Lokageet
    • Goalporiya Lokageet belongs to the Goalpara district and is primarily lyrical rather than religious or ritualistic.
    • These songs often focus on themes of love but also explore other human emotions.
    • Sub-genres include bhawaiya and chatka along with moishali and maut songs.
    • Typically, these songs are sung in chorus with the dotora, a string instrument, as the main accompaniment.
  4. Tokari Geet
    • Tokari geet draws inspiration from mythology and the social lives of people.
    • Accompanied by the Tokari (a single-stringed instrument), cymbals, and flute, these songs are mainly performed by male singers, led by a leader.
    • This form of music holds a unique place in Assamese folk tradition.
  5. Aainam
    • A devotional form of folk music sung by women, Aainam is traditionally linked to illness and death.
    • It is specifically sung when someone in the family suffers from serious sickness, like smallpox.
    • Women clap their hands in unison while singing praises to the Goddess, and it is still prevalent in lower Assam.
  6. Bianaam
    • Bianaam are marriage songs popular in both Upper and Lower Assam.
    • Sung during weddings, these songs are playful and often tease the bride and groom.
    • They narrate epic stories such as that of King Baana and his daughter Usha, who married Anniruddha, Lord Krishna’s grandson.
    • Bianaam is traditionally performed by women.

Published by Pragyanxetu

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