Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on a two-day visit to Assam, emphasised the state’s deep cultural heritage and its global significance as he attended a grand Jhumoir dance event in Guwahati on Monday.
The programme, organised by the Assam government, marked 200 years of Assam’s tea industry and celebrated the vibrant cultural legacy of the tea tribe community.
In his address to the gathering, Modi highlighted Assam’s intrinsic connection with tea, referencing his own beginnings.
“Who will understand the smell and quality of tea better than a chaiwallah?” he remarked, striking a chord with the audience.
The Prime Minister lauded the state’s cultural richness, calling the Northeast “India’s pride” and asserting his role as its “best brand ambassador.”
He said, “Today, over 60 ambassadors from different countries will be able to feel Assam. They will take the flavour of tea with themselves.”
The event, named ‘Jhumoir Binandini,’ showcased the Jhumoir dance with a record-breaking 9,000 dancers and drummers.
Modi toured the stadium on a special vehicle, greeting the performers and audience before the dance began.
The spectacle was followed by a laser show that portrayed themes rooted in Assam’s cultural identity.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) after the event, Modi expressed his admiration for the performance and Assam’s traditions.
“Every moment of Jhumoir Binandini was pure magic! This was an experience that touched the soul. As we celebrate 200 years of Assam Tea, this programme beautifully merges history, culture, and emotion. The culture of the tea tribes, their spirit, and their deep connection to the land—it all came alive today. I compliment all the artists who took part in this programme. I bow to the culture and traditions of Assam,” he wrote
The event was attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and diplomats from over 60 countries, amplifying Assam’s cultural message on an international stage.
