In April 2024, the Assumption Sisters in India opened a new community in Laimuti, in the diocese of Bongaigaon in Assam. Laimuti is a village made up of people from the Bodo tribe. The particularity of Laimuti is that one hundred per cent of the people living here belong to the Bodo tribe. There, the Claretian Fathers had begun a new parish in February 2024. After starting their new foundation, they opened a school for the all-round development of the area. Inspired by the vision and mission of St. Marie Eugenie, the foundress of the Religious of the Assumption, the Assumption Sisters of the Indian Province decided to cooperate with the Claretian Fathers to work for the Bodo community.
The Bodo community is one of the most ancient and significant indigenous groups of Assam. They primarily reside in the Bodoland region of Assam. The beauty of the Bodo lies in their rich culture, graceful traditions, love for nature and noble values. Their way of life presents a picture of simplicity, harmony and dignity that has been preserved for generations. The traditional dress of the Bodo people adds greatly to their beauty. Bodo women wear the Dokhona, handwoven with intricate designs and bright natural colours. Bodo men wear dhotis and the Aronai, which reflect simplicity and strength. Weaving is an essential part of Bodo life, and many women are skilled in producing beautifully designed handwoven garments. The art of weaving, passed down from mothers to daughters, shows the creativity and skill of Bodo women and highlights the cultural richness of the community.
Bodo dance and music further express their beauty. The famous Bagurumba dance, performed mainly by young women, is gentle and graceful, inspired by birds, flowers and flowing rivers. Traditional musical instruments such as the Kham, the Sifung and the Serja create melodious rhythms that reflect the peaceful life of the Bodo people. The most important festival of the Bodos is Bwisagu, which marks the beginning of the New Year and the spring season. During this festival, people sing, dance and celebrate together with great enthusiasm.
Religion plays a significant role in Bodo society. Traditionally, many Bodos follow Bathouism, an indigenous faith centred on the worship of Bathoubwrai, the supreme deity. The sacred Sijou plant symbolises Bathou and is worshipped as a representation of divine power and the harmony of nature. Most Bodo families are engaged in agriculture, particularly rice cultivation. The beauty of the Bodo is also seen in their moral values and social life. The Bodo community is known for its hospitality, honesty and strong unity.
In conclusion, the culture of the Bodo tribe is a vibrant blend of tradition, spirituality, art and community life. Despite modernisation, the Bodos have preserved their language, customs, festivals and artistic heritage, making them an important part of Assam's diverse cultural landscape.
Sr. Asha RA
Laimuti Community