Ben Madilynn
The new anthology Retracing Assam is a collection of short stories that takes the reader on a journey of discovery, revealing the diverse cultural tapestry of Assam and its rich history. This anthology is a collection captivating narratives that each give a unique insight into the Assamese lives. From the tea-growing region of Jorhat up to the Brahmaputra, these stories cover the whole state. They illuminate the vibrant landscapes of Assam and its multifaceted people.
The anthology provides a fresh perspective on Assam, by presenting it in different ways and shedding more light on some of its lesser known aspects. The anthology introduces the reader to the folklore, myths and legends which have shaped the culture of the region. The stories also explore the complex socio-political issues of Assam by exploring such topics as identity, immigration, and the struggle to achieve autonomy. This anthology entertains and invites reflection on Assam’s history and challenges. Retracing Assam paints an enchanting picture of the state, and gives readers a deeper appreciation of its rich and varied heritage.
Jethima’s most vivid memories are those of her uninhibited, but self-sacrificing love, her delicious, farm-fresh, ethnic food, and her almost obsession with putting others’ needs before her own. Overworked, self-love, self-development, and family happiness become her primary focus.
Many stories like these are never told. And countless dreams and aspirations die in silence, among the folded laundry, the mugs of tea being constantly prepared for family members, distant relatives, neighbors, farmers, labourers, postmen, and other household workers. “duties” The cacophony and the guests who are so used to her simplicity and efficiency that they feel entitled. Some people visit to reconnect to the past, others visit because they love you, and some offer to help with the cooking or wash your dishes. You should cherish these people.
Two women have curated and edited stories about the women we know, including our mothers, aunts, grandmothers, bous, and jethimas. Assam Anthology of 10 short stories by Indian contemporary writers, including original writers.Saudade – Tales of love, longing and loss.”
The book is curated by Jahnavi and Jyoti. Jahnavi is an Indo-Canadian poet and writer of children’s literature. She has published two books series, Be Good, Do Good, by Macaw Books India, Dar-El-Rateb, Lebanon-based publishing houses, as well as a poetry collection, Things I Told Me, available on Amazon. “If this isn’t love…” This won her first place at the Chandigarh Literary Society’s annual poetry contest in 2022.
Jyoti is an Associate Professor of English in an Engineering College, West Bengal. She is also a poet, a life skills coach, and a trainer for managers and executives in different sectors. Her clients include tea garden workers and executives in Kolkata, Numaligarh Refinery Ltd Jorhat and IOCL Haldia, as well as the Kolkata Port Trust in Haldia. Her main focus is the impact of communication on people and situations.
The book contains ten short stories that are unputdownable. My first impression was that the book was not only a good, easy read, but also informative and engaging to people who live in Assam or have roots there.
This book will also appeal to those who are interested in the northeast and plan an itinerary over months for a glimpse at Assam’s culture, society and scenery. These stories are like portals to Guwahati, Assam, and other Indian cities in different eras. They come alive when you read them.
The book conveys in a vivid way the unique and relatable characters that can be found in Guwahati as well as across Assam. This helps to shed light on different types of personalities found in Indians’ immediate surroundings. Conversational storytelling makes the stories seem real. It delved deep into the personalities of Assamese across all social strata. You can be sure that the collection of interesting and well-told tales will teach you a lot about Indians, their culture and psychology.
Neeta Lagachu Taye’s book, “The Reality of Women in Society”, exposes the reality behind the social fabric that is often a barrier to women. Lily This film takes you back in time to Assam during the arranged marriages – many of which were child marriages. This film is both relatable and eye opening to many people. It shows the sacrifices women make when they are forced into arranged marriages. “love” Over the years, women develop a love for their husbands. Women are still influenced by societal norms, accepting realities that they cannot change. They then get dominated or cheated upon in return.
It’s true that love reigns even after an arranged marriage. But it isn’t the kind of romance that can take you by storm. It’s a love that survives only because of the bonding developed through parenthood. I like dramatic cliffhangers. Be prepared to be confused by the final outcome of Lily’s life, who is a character that resembles many women we know.
The Snail Shell Bhaswati parasar explains the characteristics of our mothers – aitas and pehis – in her book. The women of our lives are the housewives in Assam, and in other parts of the country. They are expected to do a multitude of chores every day at home, and in the paddy field, while spending a minimal amount of money, if any, from their husbands’ income. Most of the time, women are unable to spend money on their own needs. Rural women live off food and other necessities collected from the fields and nearby jungles. They lead a simple, uncomplicated life with no ambitions or luxury.
Songlines Siddhartha’s Baruah, set on the Saraswati River, tells what might be the story behind a woman in India’s ancient past who has fascinated the world with her iconic sculpture. She is now a national symbol of pride and honour. This story is up for interpretation. Siddhartha’s storytelling can help you unravel the mystery and discover the identity of this historical icon.
The ending made me shiver as I realized the protagonist was someone we have all read about and admired. We are also curious to know more about her. The sculpture of this stunning woman, which is still carefully preserved and exhibited to the world, made me wonder what story lies behind her longing and pain. The story of this woman has intrigued and awed the world. The breathtaking story deserves a retelling and if the idea of reading what could be her story is tickling you, look for the story ‘Songlines’ by Siddhartha Baruah in the
anthology.
Pallavi Gogoi’s ‘Elizabeth and Pramathesh’ highlights another social issue, the “rules and restrictions” Women are subjected to a variety of restrictions during their “so-called” Schwangerschaft “marriageable age” The following are some of the ways to get in touch with us: “secure” matrimony. Not only in Assamese homes, but also in many Indian households, these belief systems are pushed down the throats of people. The social norms that govern when and who to marry as well as how to do so dictate the terms and conditions of marriage. This causes anxiety in people aged between 20 and 30. It is against the interests and ambitions of young people. They make bad decisions because of coercion, or out of spite.
“Seema aunties” In every town, parents are brainwashed by the nagging tactics of locals to force them into marrying their daughters. People who don’t meet expectations are criticized by society. “expectations” No matter what a partner’s nationality, class or caste is. This is one of those stories, in which the issue highlighted would be relatable for many readers and could be seen in many Indian homes.
Suman Sarma “A rainbow in my backyard” The film brings to light the struggles of people in the LGBTQ community, who face social restrictions regarding love and sexuality. They are forced to hide their sexuality to the rest of the world. The LGBTQ community is forced to hide their sexuality from the world if they refuse. They will be shunned and rejected and live in fear. This beautiful story tells the tale of a Guwahati-based family in which an LGBTQ individual’s love and life are bound to repressed sexuality and relationship ideologies.
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The cover art is a beautiful representation of the story, which elevates the book to a higher level than heteronormative standards or practices. A full page of sketches that represent the stories, in the form an art piece with a famous quotation, is placed before each story. It would have made the book cover a more appealing choice and an enjoyable read for those who are unfamiliar with fonts, anime and graphics. It could convince them to switch from the screen to paper. We must not judge a book based on its cover, and the book in question is a testament to this saying.
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