The Folklore Society of Assam is a Guwahati-based organization dedicated to the study, preservation, and promotion of the diverse folk culture, traditions, and literature of Assam. It publishes the annual research journal “Janakristi” and organizes seminars and conferences, such as on topics like Orality and Indian philosophy, to document intangible heritage.
Key aspects of the Folklore Society of Assam and related studies include:
Publications & Research: The society publishes Janakristi (ISSN 0974-6188), which serves as a platform for scholarly articles on the folklore, myths, and oral traditions of the region.
Collaborations: The society works with academic institutions like Gauhati University’s Department of Folklore Studies and DHSK College, Dibrugarh, to conduct workshops, seminars, and outreach programs.
Focus Areas: The research covers a broad spectrum of Assamese cultural elements, including:
Folktales: Stories such as “Tejimola” and tales of supernatural creatures like Bira.
Folk Beliefs & Rituals: Traditional practices, including snake worship (Manasa) and tribal myths.
Oral Traditions & Art: Songs, dances, and festivals of various communities (Bodo, Rabha, Mising).
Objectives: The primary focus is on documenting indigenous knowledge systems, including folk medicine, arts, and oral literature.
The society is closely linked with academic research in the region, focusing on preserving the cultural identity of Assam’s diverse communities.