After the historic achievement of entering the Guinness Book of World Records with the Bihu dance by 11,010 Bihu dancers or ‘nasonis’ and drummers or ‘dhuliyas’ last year, the Assam Government is now preparing for another grand cultural event.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday announced that the state government is planning a mega performance of the traditional Jhumur dance, featuring 8,000 artists from the tea tribe community of the state.
The event will be held on November 20, 2024, at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati.
Chief Minister Sarma said that 8,000 dancers will be chosen from as many as 800 tea estates across the state for a coordinated performance.
The Jhumur dance, which is deeply rooted in the tea plantation communities of Assam will be showcased to spread awareness about the rich traditions of these communities, to encourage the community, promote this heritage and connect it with a broader audience across the country, said Chief Minister Sarma.
The Chief Minister however said, “We have not yet made plans to attempt another world record, but we will explore the possibility. We will examine if there are any categories in the Guinness Book of World Records where this dance can be nominated for a world record.”
CM Sarma said that the organizers have been working hard to get everything ready, coordinating with different tea plantation villages, rehearsing complex dance routines, and handling logistics for the large number of attendees. Moreover, the music that the dancers will be performing has already been recorded.
What is jhumur dance?
Jhumur is a traditional folk dance form practiced by the tea tribe community in Assam.
The Jhumur dance is characterised by its colourful costumes, expressive gestures, and rhythmic movements.
It is usually performed in groups, most of which are made up of women, who dance to the rhythms of traditional instruments like the flute, cymbals, and dhol (drum).
The dancers move in circular patterns, with coordinated footwork and hand gestures that depict various aspects of daily life, nature, and folklore.
Jhumur dance is not just a form of entertainment but also serves as a medium for social cohesion and cultural expression among the tea tribe communities. Showcasing the community’s rich tradition and distinct identity, it is usually performed during festivals, cultural events, and special occasions.
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