Folk Art, Flood Relief and Cultural Preservation 

Syllabus: GS I & V– Art Forms & Cultural Heritage

Why in the News?

The recent flash floods in Sivasagar and Charaideo highlighted the humanitarian work of Assamese folk artiste and craftsman Dwijen Gogoi, whose own home remained submerged for more than a fortnight.

Dwijen Gogoi: Preserving Assam’s Folk Heritage

Dwijen Gogoi is a noted folk artiste, musician and craftsman who has mastered the making and restoration of traditional musical instruments used by different ethnic communities of Assam.

• Gogoi established the Sur Samalay Resource Centre at his residence, where students regularly learn about folk music and traditional instruments.
• He has worked on instruments such as dhol, pepa, flute, cymbals, khol and nagara, thereby helping preserve Assam’s intangible cultural heritage.
• He received the Mohan Bhaira Memorial Award in 2014 for his contribution to folk culture. The award recognises folk artistes, particularly from rural Assam.
• His work extends beyond performance, as he researches, modifies, manufactures and restores traditional instruments, making him a link between traditional knowledge and younger generations.

Culture as Community Resilience

After the floods, Gogoi invited Naamghars to bring their damaged dobas and nagaras for free restoration. This demonstrates how cultural institutions can become part of community recovery after disasters.

His family also distributed food, clothes, schoolbags, books and other essentials to affected people. His collection of plastic waste from floodwaters further reflected the importance of community-led environmental responsibility.

Exam Hook

Consider the following statements:

1. Folk traditions can contribute to the preservation of intangible cultural heritage.
2. Community participation can strengthen disaster resilience.
3. Traditional knowledge has no role in modern disaster management.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: 1 and 2 only.

One-line wrap: Dwijen Gogoi’s story shows that during disasters, culture, compassion and community participation can become powerful instruments of resilience and social recovery.