MUSICAL QUALITATIVE FEATURES OF ASSAMESE MODERN SONGS : AN ANALYTICAL STUDY

Abstract

Culture is the heart of nation, shaping its identity and standing as a source of pride. In the context of Assamese Culture the rich tapestry of songs and lyrics holds as a special place. The heritage of Assamese songs can be traced back to the ancient Charyapadas, composed between the 8th and 11th centuries. These Charyapadas serves as a valuable example of Assamese Lyricism, forming a common cultural thread across Assam Bengal, and Orissa. However there is historical gap in lyric composition after the Charyapadas. The Socio Cultural transformations, catalized by British colonialism and missionary activities, played a pivotal role in reshaping the Assamese music. The fusion of western musical elements with indigenous folk songs bought about a remarkable transformations in Assamese songs. My study highlights the impact of these changes, with a focus on the transition from traditional to modern songs. The modern Assamese song landscape, while rooted in the cultural heritage, reflacts a dynamic synthesis of global influences and local narratives. This paper critically examines the complex interplay of tradition and modernity in Assamese music, exploring how it has navigated the challenges of globalisation while preserving its cultural identity.