Dhubri strives to preserve traditional Goalpariya art forms

Dhubri: Amid the dwindling interest of younger generations in traditional folk cultures, workshops and training programmes are regularly being held in Dhubri to preserve folk song and dance forms.Goalpariya community is famous for its lokgeet (folk songs), popularised by legends like Padmashree Pratima Barua Pandey. However, the origin of the Goalpariya folk song and dance extends beyond the boundaries of the state. It originated in Rongpur (now in Bangladesh) and then spread to West Bengal and Assam.Talking to TOI, Mousumi Barua, niece of Pratima Barua Pandey and granddaughter of cine doyen Pramathesh Barua, said Goalpariya folk song and dance reflect the rich and deep cultural milieu of the state.“Moishali, Maut and Kushan dances are usually performed by buffalo herders and elephant handlers. On the other hand, Kushan and Hudum are performed on stage, and the younger generation is trained in these art forms,” she added.The organiser informed that nearly 150 students from adjacent districts participated in one such workshop recently organised to preserve these art forms and regional identity.