HT Correspondent
KOKRAJHAR, Nov 24: Bodoland University concluded a week-long Exhibition of Indigenous Art & Crafts, Handloom Traditions and Food Culture on Monday, drawing widespread participation from artisans, students, scholars, performers and visitors from across India and Bhutan. The event was organised under Project EMWSSAA with support from the North Eastern Council (NEC), Ministry of DoNER and in collaboration with TRIFED.
The exhibition highlighted regional craftsmanship, local cuisines, eco-friendly products and live cultural performances, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation of the North East’s rich heritage.
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The Janajatiya Gaurav Divas cum Inaugural Session saw Rabiram Narzary, MLA and Education Minister of BTC, as Chief Guest, with dignitaries including PS Aleng General Manager, TRIFED NER, Colonel David L Khojol 135 Infantry Battalion, Dawa Penjor General Secretary, BIFA, Bodoland University VC Prof BL Ahuja and Registrar Dr Subung Basumatary in attendance. The evening featured a colourful fashion show by Aronai Entertainment showcasing a fusion wedding ensemble, followed by musical performances from Dr P Gogoi and team and the band The Family Tree.
An Artisan Empanelment Drive was conducted by TRIFED on November 17, 2025 and exclusive sessions on “Oral and Written Histories: Indigenous Arts, Weaving, Ecological Crafts, Food Traditions & Languages” were held on November 19 in collaboration with the North East India History Association (NEIHA). Eminent historian Dr JB Bhattacharjee, retired professor from NEHU, emphasised the need to document and preserve traditional knowledge systems.
The valedictory session, led by Dr Zothanchhingi Khiangte, included words of appreciation from international academic Prof Peter Birkelund Anderson of Kobenhavns University, Denmark, as well as remarks from Dr Gayatri Dekadoloi, Dr Faguna Barmahalia and Dr Birphung Narzary. Artisans also presented gifts to the university representatives. The exhibition concluded with an open mic night featuring songs, poetry and traditional dances, highlighting the community’s cultural pride and creativity.
Project EMWSSAA with NEC and TRIFED’s support, continues to promote indigenous economies, cultural literacy and community-driven knowledge sharing across the North East.
