Guwahati: In a historic celebration of cultural pride, Assam’s tea garden community dazzled the world as 8,888 dancers performed the traditional Jhumur folk dance at Guwahati’s Sarusajai Stadium on Monday, aiming to secure a Guinness World Record. Prime Minister Narendra Modi graced the monumental event, *Jhumoir Binandini*, praising Assam’s tea heritage and its people’s resilience while reaffirming his government’s commitment to preserving the state’s cultural identity.
Clad in vibrant red-and-white sarees, the dancers moved in flawless synchrony to the rhythmic beats of the ‘madal’ drum, their footwork echoing centuries of tradition. Folk songs in the Assamese mix Sadri language filled the air, narrating tales of love, labor, and perseverance intrinsic to Assam’s tea tribes—communities that have fueled the state’s globally renowned tea industry.
Prime Minister Modi, visibly moved, drew parallels between his humble origins as a “chaiwala” (tea seller) and the tea workers’ legacy. “Who knows the color and fragrance of tea better than a *chaiwala*? My bond with this culture is as deep as yours,” he told the cheering crowd. He also spotlighted the recent recognition of Assamese as a classical language, calling it a “long-overdue honor” that elevates the state’s cultural stature.
Cultural Significance of Jhumur
More than a dance, Jhumur is a lifeline of Assam’s tea tribes, traditionally performed during festivals in the state’s 800+ tea estates. Its energetic circular formations, synchronized steps, and folk instruments like the flute and cymbals depict themes of love, nature, and collective struggle. Women dancers donned signature white sarees with red borders, adorned with beads and flowers, while male musicians wore ‘gamocha’ turbans, symbolizing the community’s rustic elegance.
Economic Vision: Culture Meets Commerce
The event doubled as a strategic showcase for ‘Advantage Assam 2.0”, a summit aimed at merging cultural heritage with economic growth. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the state’s ambition to become a global cultural and investment hub, noting, “With ambassadors from 60 nations witnessing Assam’s richness, we’re unlocking opportunities for tourism and industry.” The government hopes to leverage the Jhumur spectacle to attract investment in tea, tourism, and agro-industries.
A Night of Pride and Recognition
As the stadium lights dimmed, the echoes of the “madal’ lingered, marking a defining moment for Assam’s tea tribes. For generations overlooked, the community basked in long-awaited recognition, their artistry and heritage thrust onto the world stage. PM Modi’s visit underscored the dual narrative of cultural preservation and economic progress, positioning Assam as a beacon of tradition and ambition.
‘Jhumoir Binandini’ wasn’t merely a record attempt—it was a roaring declaration of identity. From the tea gardens to the global arena, Assam’s heartbeat resonated louder than ever, proving that its cultural roots could fuel both pride and progress. As the state etches its name in history, the world is reminded: Assam’s legacy, like its tea, grows richer with time.
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