Preserving Assam’s Heritage: Anundoram Borooah Institute of Language, Art and Culture (ABILAC), Guwahati
Introduction
Anundoram Borooah Institute of Language, Art and Culture (ABILAC), located in Guwahati, Assam, stands as a prominent cultural and linguistic research institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the diverse linguistic, artistic, and cultural legacy of Assam and the northeastern region of India. Named after one of the brightest scholars of Assam, Anundoram Borooah—the first Assamese ICS officer and Sanskrit scholar—the institute has made significant strides in cultural preservation, academic research, and the dissemination of traditional knowledge.
Establishment of ABILAC
The institute was established in 1989 by the Government of Assam under the provisions of the Registration of Societies Act, XXI of 1860. It was conceived as a center to undertake advanced research and studies in linguistics, art, culture, folklore, literature, and traditional knowledge systems. It is funded and supported by the Department of Higher Education, Government of Assam.
Affiliations and Recognition
- Affiliated Body: Department of Higher Education, Assam
- Recognized by: Government of Assam
- Collaborations: ABILAC collaborates with universities, language research centers, cultural organizations, and publishing houses across India.
Courses Offered and Academic Initiatives
ABILAC primarily focuses on research-based academic programs and cultural studies. It offers:
1. Certificate & Diploma Courses
- Certificate Course in Assamese Language and Grammar
- Certificate Course in Manuscriptology
- Diploma in Creative Writing and Assamese Literature
2. Workshops and Training Programs
- Creative Writing Workshops
- Calligraphy and Script Reading
- Translation Studies and Techniques
- Documentation and Archiving Methods
3. Research Fellowships
ABILAC sponsors:
- Short-term and long-term research fellowships in linguistics, folklore, tribal art, classical literature, and manuscript preservation.
Facilities at ABILAC
ABILAC provides a range of cultural and academic facilities that enhance both research and learning experiences.
📚 Library and Archives
- A rich collection of over 15,000 rare books, journals, manuscripts, and research papers.
- Archives of Assamese language, tribal scripts, and ancient documents.
🖼️ Museum of Art & Culture
- Displays tribal artifacts, ethnic costumes, musical instruments, and traditional household items.
- Visual exhibits on Assam’s ethnic diversity and folklore.
🧾 Manuscript Preservation Unit
- Special wing dedicated to digitizing and conserving palm-leaf manuscripts and rare books.
🖥️ Digital Documentation Lab
- Equipped for video documentation, digital archiving, and e-content creation.
Placement Cell and Career Opportunities
As ABILAC is primarily a research and cultural institute, it does not follow a conventional placement system like professional colleges. However, it offers:
- Internship opportunities in cultural institutions, museums, language departments, and translation agencies.
- Research scholars from ABILAC are often placed in:
- Academic institutions
- State government cultural departments
- Publishing houses
- Media and journalism sectors
- Non-government organizations (NGOs) focusing on indigenous culture and linguistics
Research Activities and Publications
ABILAC is renowned for its academic contributions and publications in Assamese and other regional languages. The institute regularly publishes:
📄 Research Journals
- Anundoram Borooah Journal (peer-reviewed)
- Studies in Language and Culture
📘 Books and Monographs
- Literary Criticism and Essays
- Folk tales, Proverbs, and Tribal Myths
- Assamese-English Dictionaries and Language Manuals
🎓 Ongoing Research Areas
- Endangered Languages of Northeast India
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems
- Translation Studies and Comparative Literature
- Language Standardization and Script Development
Seminars, Cultural Events & Outreach
ABILAC organizes various cultural outreach programs including:
- Annual Anundoram Borooah Memorial Lecture
- National Seminars on Linguistics, Folk Literature, and Tribal Studies
- Cultural Exchange Programs with tribal communities and educational institutions
- Workshops on Script Writing and Classical Dance Forms
Address and Contact Details
📍 Address:
Anundoram Borooah Institute of Language, Art and Culture (ABILAC)
Rajgarh Road, Near Nabin Nagar,
Guwahati – 781003, Assam, India
📞 Phone:
+91-361-2461959
📧 Email:
abilac.guwahati@gmail.com
🌐 Official Website:
http://abilac.org.in
Why Choose ABILAC?
- Ideal for those passionate about Assamese culture, literature, and linguistics
- Excellent resources for research and archival studies
- Provides opportunities to engage with tribal and indigenous art
- Acts as a cultural bridge connecting scholars with traditional communities
Conclusion
Anundoram Borooah Institute of Language, Art and Culture (ABILAC) is more than just an academic institution—it’s a treasure trove of Assam’s linguistic and cultural identity. It stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and heritage, making it a vital center for scholars, students, and cultural enthusiasts alike. With its comprehensive academic programs, rare manuscripts, and dedicated efforts toward cultural preservation, ABILAC plays a crucial role in keeping the essence of Assamese identity alive for future generations.
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