Community fishing tradition comes alive in Majuli
Majuli: On the first Sunday of Aghun, the eighth month of the Assamese calendar, a festive atmosphere reigned in Majuli as the community celebrated the ancient tradition of fishing. Villagers began gathering at the historic Dalonga Beel early in the morning, carrying various traditional fishing tools, including poles, juluki, jakoi, and jaloni jal, as they prepared to participate in one of the island’s most treasured cultural traditions.
The ancient water source of Garmur has long been a hub for this collective activity, believed to have been passed down through generations. Performing this timeless ritual, men, women, and even young participants entered the water together, turning the beel into a hub of excitement and teamwork.
An atmosphere of laughter and anticipation filled the air throughout the day, as fishermen used traditional tools like poles, jakoi, and athuwa to catch a variety of fish, including zol, magur, and borali. Many proudly returned with their catch, while others caught puthi and muwa, recreating the joy of indigenous fishing.
Foreign tourists and students from the Majuli Cultural University also participated in this spectacular event, all joining the locals to experience the unique fishing heritage of the world’s largest river island. Their participation added another level of cultural exchange and excitement to the annual celebration.
Just as community bonding, tradition, and nature are a perfect blend, the first Sunday of this Aghun once again proved why Majuli is a living treasure of Assam’s cultural identity.
