Nagaon: In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at preserving and promoting the Assamese language and culture, a global digital event titled ‘The Growth of Assamese Language Abroad: Diaspora Reflections’ united voices from across continents.
Organised by the Prabasi Axomia subcommittee of the Nagaon District Sahitya Sabha in collaboration with Nagaon College, the event celebrated the enduring connection of the Assamese diaspora to their roots.
The programme’s highlight was the launch of Prabasi Axomiar Kalome, a bilingual e-newsletter designed to serve as a literary and cultural platform for Assamese voices worldwide.
Padma Shri Dr. Surjya Kanta Hazarika, former president of Asam Sahitya Sabha, inaugurated the newsletter, describing it as “a bridge of emotion and intellect between homeland and diaspora.”
Moderated by UK-based Assamese researcher Dr. Jagannath Biswakarma, the event drew speakers from Scotland, England, Germany, Canada, and Ireland, each sharing insights on preserving the Assamese language and literature abroad.
The discussions covered themes such as literary translations, children’s literature, youth engagement, digital tools for cultural education, and systematic language preservation.
Their shared reflections highlighted the resilience and determination of the Assamese diaspora in maintaining cultural continuity.
Messages of support poured in from leaders and institutions.
Union Minister of State Pavitra Margherita hailed the initiative as a step toward cultural diplomacy, aligning with India’s ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family).
Dr. Basanta Goswami, President of Asam Sahitya Sabha, praised the effort to globalize Assamese literary conversations, while local institutions like Nagaon Jila Sahitya Sabha and Nagaon College extended unwavering support.
Dr. Sarat Borkataki, President of Nagaon Jila Sahitya Sabha, described the Assamese diaspora as cultural ambassadors of Assam in the global arena.
The newsletter Prabasi Axomiar Kalome features essays, reflections, poems, and translations from Assamese writers living abroad.
The inaugural issue includes contributions from writers based in Canada, the UK, Germany, and France, addressing topics significant to the global Assamese community.
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Speaking on the newsletter’s vision, Dr. Biswakarma emphasised the importance of activating the Assamese language’s digital presence and connecting Assamese individuals worldwide.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to ensuring that Assamese culture and literature thrive across borders, carried forward by the diaspora’s collective strength and pride.
From this initiative emerged the conviction that the language of the Luit river will not only endure but flourish in the hearts of people around the world.
