Research Paper
Year: 2020 | Month: April-June | Volume: 4 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 29-34
A Study on Poong (Dance-Drama) of the Tai-Khamtis
Chandra Mantche
Associate Professor, Dept. of History, North Lakhimpur College (Autonomous), P.O. Khelmati, Dist. Lakhimpur, Assam, India
ABSTRACT
The Tai-Khamtis are one of the culturally rich tribes of north-east India. They are Theravada Buddhist tribe professing their faith after Burmese school. Among the performing arts of the Tai-Khamtis, poong (dance-drama) is significant. Their poongs are mainly based on the themes of Jatakas, folk tales, the stories of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Different incarnations of Buddha appear key figure in their plays. Now-a day plays on social issues with mimic characters gaining its popularity in the society. The poong of the Khamtis resembles with Assamese bhaona and Burmese (Myanmarese) zats. Tangible and intangible cultural heritage of the Tai-Khamtis bear the traits of South-East Asian culture. The study of the Khamti poong is significant for proper understanding of India’s cultural relations with South-East Asian countries.
Keywords: Poong, Tai-Khamtis, Theravada, South-East Asia.
[PDF Full Text]