Assam’s rich cultural tapestry finds its most melodious expression in its folk instruments, each echoing centuries-old tradition and a vibrant musical heritage. The folk instruments of Assam have been forming some of the best tunes that have reached various mediums. Not only in Assam but it has also reached the global platform. In a recent video that went viral on social media, an American man was seen skillfully playing the 'Gogona', a traditional Assamese folk instrument. The 'Gogona' is just one of the many folk instruments that form the musical tapestry of Assam. Several Assamese folk instruments encapsulate the essence of Assam's cultural identity.

It is not the first time that ‘Gogona’ has been used, as earlier in ‘Galti Se Mistake’ song from the movie Jagga Jasoos, music director Pritam ingeniously incorporated traditional Assamese instruments, including the Dhol, Gogona, Pepa, Taal, and Tokari, captivating audiences with their rustic allure.

Renowned music composer AnuraagSaikia's collaboration with Bollywood exemplifies the growing recognition of Assam's musical heritage on a national platform. The mixing and recording of such compositions, often done in studios in Guwahati under seasoned guidance, further spotlight the richness of Assamese musical craftsmanship.

Leading the charge in showcasing Assam's musical brilliance is the illustrious artist Papon. His rendition of the song "Tokari" on MTV Coke Studio brought Assamese folk instruments into the spotlight once again. “Tokari” is a form of traditional folk music in Assam, which also originates from the Assamese instrument Dukari.

If we look at the history of Assamese folk instruments tracing back to ancient times, music played a vital role in the socio-cultural life of the region. The indigenous tribes of Assam, such as the Bodos, Karbis, and Dimasas, had their unique musical traditions characterized by the use of simple yet ingenious instruments crafted from locally available materials. These early instruments, including bamboo flutes, drums, and stringed instruments like the Dotara and Pepa, laid the foundation for the rich musical heritage that would flourish in Assam in the centuries to come.

Throughout history, Assam has been a melting pot of cultures, influenced by waves of migration and trade from neighboring regions and beyond. This cultural exchange played a significant role in shaping the musical landscape of Assam, introducing new instruments and musical styles to the indigenous population. The Ahoms, who migrated from present-day Myanmar and established the Ahom kingdom in Assam in the 13th century, brought with them their musical traditions and instruments, such as the Khol and Dhol.

Among the myriad of folk instruments, the 'Gogona', 'Pepa', 'Dhols', and others stand out for their distinctive sounds and cultural significance.

Looking back at times the folk instruments have been brought beautifully by one such pioneer JyotiprasadAgarwala, a filmmaker and musician who played a key role in reviving interest in traditional Assamese music and instruments. Agarwala's efforts to incorporate folk music and instruments into his films helped introduce a new generation of Assamese audiences to their cultural heritage, ensuring that these musical traditions would continue to thrive in the modern era.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Assamese folk instruments, driven by efforts to preserve and promote indigenous culture in the face of globalization and modernization.

One individual who exemplifies this trend is KalpanaPatowary, whose remarkable ability to seamlessly integrate traditional and contemporary elements in her musical endeavors has garnered widespread acclaim.Kalpana's unwavering dedication to mastering a diverse range of instruments and her relentless pursuit of unique and challenging musical opportunities have established her as a dynamic force in the thriving roots music scene of today.

Assam's cultural heritage and folk instruments stand as vibrant threads, weaving together tales of tradition, innovation, and universal resonance.

As Assam's melodies traverse the realms of Bollywood and beyond, they serve as ambassadors of cultural harmony, uniting diverse communities in a symphony of shared humanity. From the ancient beats of the 'Dhols' to the timeless tunes of the 'Pepa', Assam's folk instruments continue to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, ensuring that their legacy endures for generations to come.