HT Correspondent
Morigaon, Aug 13: The inauguration of the office for the 11th Special Annual Convention of Asam Sahitya Sabha took place with notable speakers highlighting the importance of preserving and promoting the Assamese language and culture. The convention is scheduled to be held at Barpujia, situated on the border of Nagaon and Morigaon districts.
Former vice president of Asam Sahitya Sabha, Mrinalini Devi, emphasised the urgency of increasing the number of Assamese speakers to ensure the survival of the language in the state. She expressed concern over a section of Assamese people embracing Western culture, which could lead to a gradual erosion of Assamese culture. Devi underlined that literature and culture are indispensable for the survival of a nation and its societal fabric. She urged the younger generation to be well-versed in the ancient teachings of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, emphasising that these teachings can play a significant role in reforming Assamese society.
The event also marked the formation of the main reception committee and 34 sub-committees, all working towards the successful execution of the convention. Hemanta Kr Deuri, president of the reception committee, mentioned that the 11th Special Annual Convention of the Asam Sahitya Sabha would take place at Barpujia, with a budget of Rs 3 crore allocated for the event.
Several prominent figures attended the event, including Dr Upendrajit Sharma, general secretary of Asam Sahitya Sabha, Devashish Sharma, Morigaon district commissioner, Mahendra Shaikia, president of Morigaon District Sahitya Sabha, and Dr Achuit Das, secretary of Morigaon Zilla Sahitya Sabha. The gathering was also graced by the presence of Birinchi Kumar Sharma, executive president of the committee, and renowned writers like Dhirendra Nath Sharma.
Asam Sahitya Sabha central executive members, including Binu Laskar Thakuria and Harendra Bora, along with senior journalists Mahendra Nath Hazarika and Ajit Sharma, participated in the program as well.