40 Northeast Janjati Communities Congregate at RGU for Janjati Sammelan
GUWAHATI, January 30, 2026: The rich cultural mosaic of Northeast India came
alive at The Assam Royal Global University (RGU) today as over 400 participants representing more than 40
Janjati communities from all eight northeastern states gathered for the “Janjati Sammelan.” The Janjati
Sammelan has been organised on the occasion of the Foundation Day of the Vivekananda Kendra Institute of
Culture (VKIC), Guwahati.
The inaugural session of the Janjati Sammelan was graced by Shri Narayan Chandra Borkataky, Vice Chairman,
State Innovation and Transformation Aayog, Assam, and former Member of Parliament, as the Chief Guest. In
his address, Shri Borkataky emphasised the need to preserve indigenous knowledge systems and cultural
heritage while integrating innovation and inclusive development for the Janjati communities of the region.
Prof. Shiela Bora, Director, VKIC and Dean, Royal School of Humanities and Life Sciences, RGU, delivered the
welcome address, highlighting VKIC’s commitment to cultural preservation and unity through diversity.
Dr. Joram Begi, eminent educationist and Chairman, VKIC, spoke on the rich customs and traditions followed
by the various Janjati communities of the Northeast. He underscored the importance of social reformation
while retaining the core cultural roots, values, and traditions that define indigenous identities.
A captivating community presentation by the Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh marked a key highlight of the
inaugural session, drawing appreciation from the audience for its authenticity and cultural depth. The
programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Meera Kulkarni, Secretary, VKIC.
Reflecting VKIC’s guiding motto, “Culture Nurtures Unity,” the Janjati Sammelan witnessed enthusiastic participation from Janjati communities across the Northeast. The event featured exhibitions and sale of traditional handloom and handicrafts, ritual and cultural performances, and interactive dialogue sessions offering visitors an immersive cultural experience.
Participants adorned themselves in vibrant ethnic attire, representing communities such as Bodo, Chutiya, Thengal, Karbi, Tiwa, Tai Ahom, Munda, Sawra, and Kharia from Assam; Kuki from Manipur; Hajong from Meghalaya; Signpho, Apatani, Galo, Tagin, Tai Khamti, Kaman & Taroan, Sherdukpen, Tutsa, and Tangsa from Arunachal Pradesh; and Tripura Hoda, Murasing Hoda, Debbarma, Reang Hoda, and Kala Hoda from Tripura, among others. The Janjati Sammelan stood as a powerful celebration of unity in diversity, reinforcing the cultural bonds that define Northeast India.
