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Assam – The historic grounds of Jerenga Pathar in Sivasagar witnessed an extraordinary cultural moment on Friday as thousands gathered to participate in a landmark spiritual and artistic event. The open field, known for its historical significance, came alive with devotional energy as women from across the region united to create a new global record rooted in Assam’s traditional heritage.

A Record-Breaking Cultural Gathering

Under the banner of the Ratnagarbha Tejaswini Foundation, exactly 15,555 women assembled at the venue to perform Assamese Dihanam continuously for 42 minutes. The coordinated performance, marked by devotional singing and rhythmic cymbal beats, was carefully organised and monitored to meet international record standards. The achievement was later officially recognised by the World Book of Records, placing Sivasagar on the global cultural map.

Tradition on a Grand Scale

Participants arrived dressed in traditional Assamese attire, turning the expansive field into a vivid display of colour, faith, and community spirit. The synchronised chanting by thousands of voices created a powerful and unified sound that echoed across the area. Observers described the atmosphere as deeply moving, reflecting both spiritual devotion and collective discipline. The event highlighted how cultural practices, when brought together at scale, can become a symbol of shared identity and pride.

Recognition from Global Record Authorities

The achievement received formal acknowledgment from representatives of the World Wide Book of Records. Indian coordinator Sindhuja VB praised the participants for their dedication and precision, noting that sustaining a traditional Assamese song for 42 uninterrupted minutes was a rare and meaningful accomplishment. She confirmed that the performance had met all required criteria and was officially entered into the record books as a notable cultural milestone.

Empowerment Through Cultural Expression

Organisers said the event was not only about setting a record but also about celebrating women’s participation in preserving and promoting Assam’s spiritual traditions. By placing women at the centre of the performance, the initiative aimed to underline their role as custodians of cultural knowledge passed down through generations. Local residents and community leaders described the gathering as a moment of empowerment that blended devotion, discipline, and cultural continuity.

Governor Highlights Culture-Led Development

In a separate but related cultural development, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya attended the valedictory session of the Janajati Sammelan along with the 30th foundation day celebrations of the Vivekananda Kendra Institute of Culture. The event was hosted at Assam Royal Global University in Guwahati on January 31 and brought together participants from diverse tribal and social backgrounds.

Focus on Inclusive Growth and Identity

Addressing the gathering, the Governor described the conference as significant for encouraging dialogue among different communities. He said the Janajati Sammelan successfully concluded discussions held under the theme “Development through Culture,” emphasising that progress should be rooted in cultural understanding. According to him, development efforts must strengthen tribal identity, languages, and self-respect rather than dilute them.

Dialogue on Key Social Priorities

The Governor also noted that the platform facilitated meaningful exchanges on critical issues such as education, healthcare access, sustainable livelihoods, cultural preservation, and the responsible use of modern technology. He stressed that when development aligns with cultural values, it leads to inclusive and long-term growth that benefits all sections of society without eroding traditional foundations.

Together, the events in Sivasagar and Guwahati reflected a broader commitment within Assam to celebrate cultural heritage while linking it to contemporary goals of unity, empowerment, and sustainable development.