IMPACT OF MODERNIZATION ON MEGALITH CULTURE OF KARBI TRIBES OF ASSAM
DOI:
https://doie.org/10.5281/2cq4r997Keywords:
Karbi tribe, megalith culture, modernization, cultural change.,,Abstract
Every tribe has its own unique culture that represents its values and identity. Just like any
other Tribes and Community, the Karbis also have vibrant folk culture and identity in Assam.
Megalith culture is one of the oldest cultures found in different states of India. Megaliths are
basically stone structures that hold the remains of the dead or objects used in burial. In terms of
the continuation between the past and present generation, Megalith is one of the crucial
characteristics of ethno-archaeological identity. Megalith culture in the state of Assam is mostly
found among the Karbi tribe. But with the passes of time this specific culture has been started to
diminish among the Karbi tribe of Assam. From different studies it is seen that there are various
factors such as spread of education, conversion to other religion, occupational structure etc. are
responsible for social change of traditional culture, literature, folklore etc. Therefore, it is obvious
that modernization process must have some significant impact on the megalith culture of the Karbi
tribe. In the present study an attempt is made to study the impact of modernization on the megalith
culture of Karbi tribe of Assam. The present research work is descriptive in nature. The study will
be based on both primary and secondary data and the geographical area selected for the study is
two districts of Assam Kamrup Metro and Karbi Anglong. The present study will reveal the
relationship between modernization and cultural values of the Karbi society. It will also reveal
various problems faced by the Karbi community of Assam in continuing their customs and culture
which have a significant impact on their lives.
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