A new chapter has been added to the history of the Asom Sahitya Sabha. The Assamese language and cultural practices of Assam have now spread across different parts of the world. “History will always remember you,” said Dr. Basanta Kumar Goswami, President of the Asom Sahitya Sabha, while inaugurating online magazine “Prabakhi Prabahika” at an online event held on the night of April 11. The Rongali Bihu edition of the quarterly online magazine “Prabakhi Prabahika,” published by the Inter-State Foreign Moitribandhan Sub-Committee under the Asom Sahitya Sabha, was formally released during the programme. Dr. Goswami described the initiative as a remarkable achievement. He stated that the magazine, once included in the Sabha’s annual records, would help preserve the Assamese language and culture for generations to come. He further assured that the central office of the Sabha would preserve this valuable work. He emphasized that Assamese people living across the globe would continue to promote their language and culture, guiding their homeland and community. Reflecting on his long-cherished dream of organizing a book fair in cities like Mumbai or Delhi, which could not be done due to various reasons, he added that “Prabakhi Prabahika” would serve as a medium through which expatriate Assamese could share the essence of their homeland—the fragrance of its soil, water, and air—while keeping their language and culture alive.
Ruma Hazarika, editor of the magazine and Executive President of the sub-committee, conducted the programme. She expressed that “Prabakhi Prabahika” would inspire the younger generation to engage in language and literary pursuits and open doors for creative exchange at the international level. She also extended her gratitude and best wishes to all contributors and members associated with the publication.
Karmasurjya Dr. Sashi Kanta Saikia, convenor of the sub-committee, a noted writer and academician, Principal DHSK College (Autonomous) praised the innovative initiative, stating that it has connected Assamese people worldwide like a bond of shared heritage. He described the magazine not merely as a publication, but as a living reflection of the emotions, intellect, and roots of thousands of Assamese scattered across the globe. He highlighted that the achievements of expatriate Assamese have brought pride to the community and that such initiatives demonstrate the global stature of the Asom Sahitya Sabha. He further remarked that language is essential for the survival of a community, and for Assamese people, it is not merely a means of communication but a struggle for identity and existence. He expressed confidence that “Prabakhi Prabahika” would add a new dimension to Assamese literature and transform the global Assamese community into a closely connected cultural village. The programme was hosted by Diksha Pathak Khataniar, Secretary of the Mumbai Swarna Branch Sahitya Sabha. Participants from various parts of the world, including Thailand, Ireland, Scotland, Great Britain, South Africa, North America, and Kuwait, shared songs, poems, and speeches. Notable participants included Manasi Gogoi, Diganta Malakar, Nirala Barua, Geeta Barua, Dr. Anjana Goswami, Sukanya, Kamalakshi Hazarika, Alok Das, Rajdeep Barua, Ajit Hazarika, Sadananda Gogoi, and Simi Barman, among many others. It may be noted that the magazine will also be available through the mobile application titled “Tratri.”