What Scream 'I Am Assamese'
Assamese identity is not complete without the uikit, a unique and infectious vocal expression that represents the joy and exuberance of Assamese culture. This article delves into the peculiarities of being an Assamese through the lens of the uikit and other iconic cultural elements that make one feel a true connection to the land and its people.
The Uki: A Vocal Exclamation of Joy
We all have those moments when we shout in pure joy, perhaps a loud 'woo-hoo' or a cheerful 'hoo-hoo'. For Assamese, it's the uikit. This unique sound starts with a high-pitched tone and ends with two to three distinct notes. It can start a positive feedback loop, much like a chain reaction of joy spreading through the crowd.
During the festive days of Bihu, the air is filled with ukits. Whether it's "ukit mar" after a successful exam, "ukit eta mar" when Zubeen da is on stage, or the overall joy of Bihu, the uikit is a shared language that brings people together.
For example, a person from a quaint town in Nagaland who heard a uikit realized they had just met an Assamese guest. This sound, synonymous with happiness and celebration, is embedded in the essence of Assamese culture.
Assamese Cultural Elements
Beyond the uikit, there are numerous cultural elements that define Assamese identity. One of the most significant is the gamosa, a traditional woven cloth that serves both practical and ceremonial purposes.
Identity Through Cuisine and Language
Assamese cuisine is as rich as it is diverse. While other cuisines might charm us with their unique flavors, we have our masoor dali bhaat (lentil rice with lemon) and rice wine. It's not uncommon for us to prefer these traditional dishes over others.
Our accents are distinct, with phrases like "amlet" instead of omelet, "soklet" instead of chocolate, and "siken" instead of chicken. However, these accents are endearing and reflect our cultural identity.
UKIT: The Joyful Call of Assamese Culture
The uikit is a sound that is both joyous and contagious. It's how we express happiness, celebrate success, and mark special occasions. During Bihu, the festival of harvest, the ukits can be heard continuously, signifying the sheer happiness and vibrancy of the people.
Gamosa: A Symbol of Our Culture
The gamosa is more than just a piece of cloth. It's a symbol of our rich cultural heritage and a practical accessory used in everyday life. After a bath, the gamosa is used to dry oneself, and it dries faster than regular towels. This practicality combined with its cultural significance makes it a quintessential Assamese emblem.
Assamese people are often seen wearing or flaunting their gamosas even when traveling outside Assam. This tradition not only strengthens their connection to their roots but also welcomes fellow Assamese to meet each other during travels.
The CAA and Our Stand
Our cultural pride extends to our political stance. The Citizens' Act Amendment (CAA), for instance, is something we solely oppose. Assam's identity and culture are rooted in a deep sense of community and tradition, and policies like the CAA threaten to erase these values.
Concluding Thoughts
Being an Assamese is not just about the uikit or wearing a gamosa. It's about the food we eat, the language we speak, and the festivals we celebrate. It's about the joy, the traditions, and the community that we share. As I ponder on what screams 'I am Assamese', it becomes clear that these little quirks and cultural symbols are the very essence of our identity.
Note: This article was written while en route to an interview venue, making it a real-time reflection on the Assamese identity and the unique aspects that define us. If you ever hear a uikit or spot someone wearing a gamosa, you might just be witnessing a moment of Assamese joy and pride.