Syllabus: GS-I & V: Culture

Why in the News?

The three-day historic Jonbeel Mela, a symbol of cultural unity and tradition, began at Jagiroad, Morigaon, Assam. 

About Jonbeel Mela

• Jonbeel Mela is considered one of the most unique and historic festivals in Assam, where the barter system comes alive.
  • It is the only fair in India where the barter system is still alive.
• The name of the Mela has come from the word “Jon,” meaning moon, and “Beel,” which means wetland, as inspired by the crescent-shaped Jonbeel water body near to the fairground.
• The event is organised under the traditional king of the Tiwa Tribe called Gobha Deoraja that once ruled the area.
• It is a three-day festival, attracting people from all communities, particularly the Tiwa, Karbi, Khasi, and Jaintia tribes from the hills.

History of Jonbeel Mela

• Historically, the Jonbeel Mela was begun in about the 15th century by the Ahom King and Gobha Raja, for the political discussions and the bonding of Assam and Meghalaya tribes. 
• It was first organised during the reign of Ahom King, which later became an annual gathering between the Ahom Kings and tribal chieftains.
• History tells us that both the Ahom Kings and the tribal chieftains brought their subjects to the fair to promote brotherhood and harmony among the people of plains and the hills. 
• While coins existed at the time, the barter system was preferred as a way to strengthen the bond between the communities of the plains and those in the hills.
• It has now become a socio-cultural celebration with the concept of harmony and peaceful coexistence where the hill tribes come with forest products, herbs, and spices. 

Key Activities at Jonbeel Mela

• Community Fishing: The mela begins with a communal fishing event at Jonbeel Lake, where traditional fishing methods are revived and celebrated.
• Agni Puja: A sacred fire ritual, or Agni Puja, is performed before the trading activities, invoking blessings for humanity and emphasizing the religious significance of the festival.
• Barter System: Tribes from the hills bring forest products, herbs, and spices, exchanging them with goods from the plains in a vibrant demonstration of trust and cultural exchange.
• Tax Collection: On the final day, the Gobha Raja collects taxes (bhatta) in the form of goods from his subjects, symbolizing the ancient governance system and the enduring relationship between the ruler and the people.
• Royal Procession: The Gobha Raja and his courtiers, dressed in traditional royal attire, add a historical grandeur to the festival, connecting ancient customs with modern celebrations.

Significance of Jonbeel Mela

• Cultural Unity and Coexistence
  • Promotes harmony among hill and plain communities, overcoming differences in language and lifestyle.
  • Serves as a reminder of mutual respect and shared heritage, fostering peaceful coexistence.
• Ecological Sensitivity
  • Highlights eco-friendly practices through bamboo dwellings, simple decorations, and sustainably sourced products.
  • Acts as an example of environmental conservation integrated with cultural traditions.
• Preservation of Indigenous Practices
  • Demonstrates the resilience of ancient traditions in the face of modernization and globalization.
  • Offers a counterpoint to digital economies by emphasizing self-sufficiency and human interaction.
• Cultural Pride and Historical Awareness
  • Reconnects younger generations with their heritage.
  • Showcases traditional governance structures, such as tax collection by the Gobha Raja, reflecting respect for tribal leadership.
• Resistance to Commercialization
  • Faces the challenge of balancing cultural preservation with modern accessibility due to rising tourist attention.
  • Encourages discussions on maintaining authenticity while accommodating external interests.
• Economic and Social Harmony
  • Provides a platform for trade, showcasing a barter system that reflects trust and cultural exchange.
  • Blends history, economy, and social harmony, acting as a “living museum” of indigenous traditions.
• Inspiration for the Modern World
  • Highlights the relevance of simplicity, cooperation, and cultural pride in today’s fast-paced, globalized society.
  • Serves as a celebration of humanity, offering a timeless lesson on the importance of roots and shared values.

Jonbeel Mela is a testament to the strength of indigenous cultural practices and a celebration of human and environmental interconnectedness.

Source