Perspectives of Rites and Customs in Rabha Society

Author(s): Dr. Neeva Rani Phukan

Abstract:

A society is known by its distinct cultural elements. The social rites, customs, traditions and beliefs preserved and practiced by the people of a society gives the society its distinctiveness. In regard to the Rabha society, though an integral part of the greater Assamese society, it has its own distinct rites and customs which mark the Rabhas as a unique people. Whether be it funeral or marriage or other social function, the Rabhas have a unique way of celebrating those occasions where they showcase their beliefs, rites and customs. It has been seen that with the onslaught of time features of many an indigenous people are losing their cultural identity as they are not able to preserve their age-old beliefs, rites and customs. In view of this trend there is a need to preserve and promote distinct features of ethnic people like the Rabhas. It can also be observed that distinct social functions and ceremonies always project a live culture. In the Rabha society there are numerous such occasions where the entire community participates in a befitting manner. Some of these have social relevance while some others have religious relevance. Rites and customs are nothing but ideal elements which identifies one group from the other group. This Research Paper is an attempt to showcase various rites and custom of the Rabhas.

Keywords: Distinct, cultural elements, rites, customs, beliefs, integral, showcase, indigenous.

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