Index
1. Introduction
1.1 Overview of Jonbeel Mela
1.2 Historical and Cultural Significance
1.3 Uniqueness of the Festival
2. Historical Background
2.1 Origin of Jonbeel Mela
2.2 Role of the Ahom Kings in Establishing the Mela
2.3 Evolution Over the Centuries
3. Geographical and Temporal Aspects
3.1 Location of Jonbeel Mela (Morigaon District, Assam)
3.2 Time and Duration of the Festival
3.3 Natural Setting and its Significance
4. The Barter System: A Unique Economic Tradition
4.1 Concept of Barter System in Jonbeel Mela
4.2 Items Exchanged Between Tribal and Non-Tribal Communities
4.3 Comparison with Historical Barter Systems
4.4 Relevance of Barter in the Modern Economy
5. Participation and Key Stakeholders
5.1 Tribal Communities Involved
5.2 Role of Tiwa (Lalung) Tribe
5.3 Participation of Local Assamese Traders
5.4 Involvement of the Assam Government and Local Authorities
6. Rituals and Ceremonies
6.1 Royal Assembly of Tiwa Kings
6.2 Community Feast (Jalpan) and Traditional Cooking
6.3 Religious and Spiritual Practices
6.4 Cultural Performances (Dance, Music, and Folk Tales)
7. Economic and Social Impact
7.1 Economic Benefits for Local Traders and Tribals
7.2 Boost to Traditional Handicrafts and Agriculture
7.3 Strengthening of Inter-Community Relations
7.4 Role of Jonbeel Mela in Rural Development
8. Political and Administrative Aspects
8.1 Involvement of Local Administration
8.2 Security and Management of the Mela
8.3 Role of Assam Tourism and Government Initiatives
9. Environmental and Sustainability Aspects
9.1 Impact of the Mela on Local Ecology
9.2 Measures Taken for Waste Management
9.3 Sustainable Practices in Barter and Trade
10. Challenges and Future Prospects
10.1 Threats to the Barter System Due to Modernization
10.2 Declining Participation of Younger Generations
10.3 Scope for Cultural and Heritage Tourism
10.4 Government Policies for the Conservation of Traditional Festivals
11. Conclusion
11.1 Cultural and Economic Relevance in Contemporary Assam
11.2 Future of Jonbeel Mela in a Globalized World
1. Introduction
1.1 Overview of Jonbeel Mela
Jonbeel Mela is a centuries-old traditional fair held annually in Morigaon district, Assam.
It is unique for its barter system, where tribal and non-tribal communities exchange goods without using money.
The fair is organized by the Tiwa (Lalung) tribe, with participation from various ethnic groups of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
The festival takes place near Jonbeel (a crescent-shaped wetland), which adds to its cultural and ecological significance.
It lasts for three days, typically in January, during the Magh Bihu celebrations.
Apart from trade, the mela includes rituals, royal assemblies, and community feasts, making it an economic, social, and cultural hub.
1.2 Historical and Cultural Significance
The fair dates back to the 15th–16th century, initiated by the Ahom kings to foster economic and cultural harmony.
Historical records suggest that the Ahom rulers encouraged hill and plain communities to participate in the fair for better regional cooperation.
The Tiwa kings and other tribal chiefs still hold a royal assembly (Rajdarbar) during the mela to discuss regional issues, keeping the legacy of traditional governance alive.
It symbolizes unity between the hill and plains people, promoting social integration through trade, food, and festivities.
1.3 Uniqueness of the Festival
Aspect | Why is it Unique? |
|---|---|
Barter System | One of the few remaining barter trade fairs in India. No currency is used; instead, goods like rice, vegetables, fish, and spices are exchanged. |
Royal Assembly | The Tiwa king and other tribal chiefs hold a traditional court (Rajdarbar), continuing an age-old practice of governance. |
Community Feast | All participants, including tribals and non-tribals, take part in a massive feast, reinforcing social harmony. |
Ethnic Participation | Tribes from Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh come together, making it a multicultural event. |
Eco-Cultural Setting | The fair is held near Jonbeel Lake, surrounded by natural beauty, adding an ecological dimension to the event. |
2. Historical Background
2.1 Origin of Jonbeel Mela
The roots of Jonbeel Mela can be traced back to the medieval period (15th–16th century).
It was started by the Tiwa (Lalung) tribal chiefs as an economic and cultural exchange platform for hill and plain communities.
The fair was named after Jonbeel, a crescent-shaped wetland near which it is held.
Historically, the festival aimed to promote peaceful trade relations among different communities through the barter system, ensuring mutual benefit.
2.2 Role of the Ahom Kings in Establishing the Mela
The Ahom kings, particularly during the late medieval period, played a key role in institutionalizing Jonbeel Mela.
They encouraged hill tribes (such as Tiwas, Karbis, and Khasis) to interact and trade with the plains communities (Assamese, Ahoms, and others).
The Ahom rulers provided protection and patronage, ensuring the fair was held annually.
The kings also held a royal assembly (Rajdarbar) during the mela, where they collected tribute from the tribal chiefs and settled local disputes.
This practice continues today, where the Tiwa king and other tribal leaders conduct traditional governance meetings.
2.3 Evolution Over the Centuries
Time Period | Significant Changes in Jonbeel Mela |
|---|---|
15th–16th Century | Initiation of the mela by Tiwa tribal leaders; barter system begins. |
Ahom Rule (1228–1826) | Kings formalized the Rajdarbar tradition, promoted inter-community trade, and ensured security. |
Colonial Period (1826–1947) | British policies led to a decline in traditional tribal governance, but the barter system continued. |
Post-Independence (1947–Present) | The mela adapted to modern administrative structures, and government initiatives began promoting it as a heritage event. |
21st Century | Increased recognition as an eco-cultural tourism destination, with participation from tourists and scholars. |
3. Geographical and Temporal Aspects
3.1 Location of Jonbeel Mela (Morigaon District, Assam)
Jonbeel Mela is held in the Morigaon district of central Assam, approximately 32 km east of Guwahati.
It takes place near Jonbeel, a crescent-shaped natural wetland, from which the festival derives its name.
The mela site is close to the Jagiroad town, an important trade and industrial hub in Assam.
The region is inhabited by diverse ethnic communities, including the Tiwas, Assamese, Karbis, Khasis, and Garos, who actively participate in the fair.
The strategic location of Jonbeel Mela serves as a meeting point for hill and plains tribes, making it a center for cultural and economic exchange.
3.2 Time and Duration of the Festival
The festival is held annually in January, during the Magh Bihu celebrations, which mark the harvest season.
It lasts for three days, with the main events occurring on the second day.
The schedule of the festival follows a traditional pattern:
Day | Key Activities |
|---|---|
Day 1 (Opening Ceremony) | Arrival of tribal traders, setup of barter stalls, and the commencement of trade. |
Day 2 (Main Events) | Barter trade, Rajdarbar (royal assembly), and a community feast where all participants share meals. |
Day 3 (Conclusion) | Cultural performances, traditional dance, and the departure of traders back to their villages. |
3.3 Natural Setting and its Significance
Jonbeel Wetland is a seasonal water body that serves as an ecological hotspot supporting diverse flora and fauna.
The fertile plains and abundant water resources around Jonbeel make it ideal for agriculture and fishing, which are key aspects of the barter trade.
The wetland plays a role in flood regulation and groundwater recharge, benefiting local farmers.
The festival’s proximity to nature enhances its appeal as an eco-cultural event, attracting tourists and researchers.
The scenic beauty and historical significance of Jonbeel contribute to its growing importance in Assam’s heritage tourism sector.
4. The Barter System: A Unique Economic Tradition
4.1 Concept of Barter System in Jonbeel Mela
Jonbeel Mela is one of the few surviving barter trade fairs in India, where goods are exchanged without the use of money.
The barter system is a traditional practice upheld by tribal and non-tribal communities, reinforcing economic and social ties.
Tribal communities from the hills (Karbis, Khasis, Tiwas, Garos, etc.) bring organic produce, forest products, and handloom items, while plains people offer rice, fish, salt, and spices in return.
This pre-monetary economic model reflects the self-sufficient and cooperative nature of these communities.
The barter exchange is conducted in an open-air market, making it a symbol of economic and cultural integration.
4.2 Items Exchanged Between Tribal and Non-Tribal Communities
Items Brought by Hill Tribes | Items Brought by Plains Communities |
|---|---|
Forest produce (wild herbs, honey, medicinal plants) | Rice varieties (sticky rice, local grains) |
Handicrafts (woven textiles, bamboo products, traditional tools) | Fish and dried fish |
Organic vegetables and fruits | Salt and spices |
Traditional meat items (wild game, smoked meat) | Jaggery and sweets |
Fermented beverages (local rice beer, herbal drinks) | Metal utensils and earthenware |
This exchange benefits both groups, ensuring availability of essential goods that may not be locally produced.
4.3 Comparison with Historical Barter Systems
Aspect | Jonbeel Mela Barter System | Ancient and Global Barter Systems |
|---|---|---|
Economic Role | A regional trade practice between hill and plain communities | A global pre-monetary trade system used in ancient civilizations |
Medium of Exchange | Goods like food, handicrafts, and forest products | Livestock, metals, grains, and tools |
Governance | Supervised by the Tiwa king and tribal leaders | Varied—controlled by chiefs, monarchs, or informal trade networks |
Continuity | Still actively practiced in the 21st century | Largely replaced by currency-based trade |
4.4 Relevance of Barter in the Modern Economy
Despite being an ancient economic practice, the barter system at Jonbeel Mela holds cultural and practical significance today.
Preservation of Traditional Economy: Encourages sustainable, cashless transactions, reducing dependency on modern market fluctuations.
Promotion of Indigenous Products: Helps local artisans and farmers find a market for their organic and handmade goods.
Symbol of Community Cooperation: Strengthens economic interdependence between different ethnic groups, fostering social harmony.
Tourism and Heritage Conservation: Attracts scholars, tourists, and policymakers, highlighting the value of alternative economic models.
Global Perspective: While modern economies rely on currency-based trade, barter systems like Jonbeel Mela demonstrate the resilience of traditional economies.
5. Participation and Key Stakeholders
5.1 Tribal Communities Involved
Jonbeel Mela witnesses participation from several indigenous tribal groups from both hills and plains.
The fair serves as a platform for these tribes to exchange goods, showcase cultural heritage, and strengthen social bonds.
Some of the major tribal groups participating in the mela include:
Hill Tribes (Bring forest produce, handicrafts, and organic food) | Plains Communities (Provide rice, fish, spices, and metalware) |
|---|---|
Tiwas (Lalungs) | Assamese locals and farmers |
Karbis | Ahoms |
Khasis | Bodos |
Garos | Kocharis |
These communities have historically maintained a symbiotic relationship, relying on each other for economic and social benefits.
5.2 Role of Tiwa (Lalung) Tribe
The Tiwa (Lalung) tribe plays a central role in organizing and continuing the traditions of Jonbeel Mela.
The Tiwa king (locally known as the “Gobha Raja”) presides over the mela, symbolizing tribal leadership and governance.
The tribe oversees:
The organization of the barter system.
Conducting the Rajdarbar (Royal Court Meeting) where grievances and issues of tribal communities are addressed.
Maintaining order and security during the fair.
The Tiwas act as a bridge between the hill and plain communities, ensuring fair and traditional trade practices.
5.3 Participation of Local Assamese Traders
While Jonbeel Mela is primarily a tribal fair, it also attracts local Assamese traders and small business owners.
Their participation enhances the festival’s economic scope by:
Providing essential commodities like salt, fish, rice, and textiles.
Offering modern goods and services, including agricultural tools and household items.
Contributing to the promotion of Assamese culture through stalls selling ethnic food, traditional attire, and handicrafts.
The mela provides a rare opportunity for direct interaction between traders and indigenous communities.
5.4 Involvement of the Assam Government and Local Authorities
Stakeholder | Role in Jonbeel Mela |
|---|---|
Assam Government | Recognizes Jonbeel Mela as an intangible cultural heritage and promotes it as a tourist attraction. |
Tourism Department | Facilitates cultural tourism, promoting the mela through advertisements and travel guides. |
Local Administration (Morigaon District Authorities) | Ensures security, law and order, sanitation, and crowd management. |
Tiwa Autonomous Council (TAC) | Provides financial aid and logistical support for the smooth functioning of the festival. |
Cultural Organizations | Conduct traditional dance performances, folk music, and storytelling sessions to showcase Assam’s cultural heritage. |
The government and local authorities play a key role in preserving the traditional barter economy while integrating modern tourism opportunities.
6. Rituals and Ceremonies
6.1 Royal Assembly of Tiwa Kings
A significant highlight of Jonbeel Mela is the “Rajdarbar” (Royal Assembly), where the Gobha Raja (Tiwa King) along with other tribal chieftains hold a traditional court session.
This assembly serves as a symbolic governance system, where:
Issues faced by tribal communities are discussed.
Disputes among villagers are settled amicably.
Tribal laws and customs are reaffirmed.
The Tiwa king collects tributes from his subjects in the form of agricultural produce and local goods, reflecting the ancient feudal traditions of Assam.
6.2 Community Feast (Jalpan) and Traditional Cooking
The mela fosters social bonding through large-scale community feasts, where people from different tribes and communities come together.
Jalpan (Traditional Assamese breakfast) is served, which includes:
Pitha (Rice cakes)
Curd and chira (flattened rice)
Black jaggery and cream
Lai xaak (Mustard greens) and local vegetables
Special dishes like smoked meat, pork with bamboo shoots, and rice beer are prepared using traditional cooking techniques over open fire.
The feast represents hospitality, unity, and the agrarian traditions of the region.
6.3 Religious and Spiritual Practices
Ritual | Significance |
|---|---|
Offering to the Fire God (Agni Puja) | Conducted before the barter begins, seeking blessings for prosperity and good harvest. |
Ritual Bathing in Jonbeel (Moon Lake) | Believed to purify participants and wash away sins, symbolizing renewal. |
Sacrificial Offerings | Some tribal groups offer livestock or food items to deities, maintaining ancestral traditions. |
Prayers for Community Well-being | Elders perform chants and rituals for peace, harmony, and successful trade. |
6.4 Cultural Performances (Dance, Music, and Folk Tales)
Jonbeel Mela is also a cultural extravaganza, showcasing Assam’s rich tribal heritage through various performances:
Cultural Performance | Tribe/Community Associated | Description |
|---|---|---|
Bihu Dance | Assamese and Tiwa communities | Energetic dance performed with dhol (drum) beats and pepa (hornpipe music). |
Deodhani Dance | Tiwa and Bodo tribes | A spiritual dance performed by female dancers, often in a trance-like state. |
Ojapali | Assamese folk tradition | A blend of storytelling, dance, and music, narrating mythological tales. |
Tiwa Warrior Dance | Tiwa Tribe | Performed by Tiwa men, symbolizing bravery and ancestral valor. |
Folk Music Performances | Various tribes | Sung in indigenous languages, often depicting nature, harvest, and folklore. |
These performances are integral to the festival, allowing visitors to experience Assam’s indigenous traditions.
7. Economic and Social Impact
7.1 Economic Benefits for Local Traders and Tribals
Jonbeel Mela serves as a significant economic platform for tribal communities and local traders, facilitating both barter and cash transactions.
Economic benefits include:
Sale of agricultural produce, forest products, and traditional crafts.
Financial upliftment of tribal farmers and artisans.
Creation of temporary employment in areas such as transport, food stalls, and event management.
The festival also attracts tourists, benefiting homestays, hotels, and small businesses in the region.
7.2 Boost to Traditional Handicrafts and Agriculture
Sector | Impact of Jonbeel Mela |
|---|---|
Handicrafts | Promotion of bamboo products, pottery, cane furniture, and handwoven textiles. |
Agriculture | Encourages the sale and exchange of indigenous crops, organic vegetables, and medicinal plants. |
Livestock Trade | Tribal communities trade poultry, pigs, and goats, strengthening local livestock farming. |
Traditional Food Processing | Boost to small-scale food businesses making rice beer, jaggery, and pickles. |
The fair serves as a rural economic hub, ensuring economic self-sufficiency for marginalized communities.
7.3 Strengthening of Inter-Community Relations
Jonbeel Mela fosters harmony between hill tribes and plains communities, enhancing cultural and economic ties.
The barter system ensures that diverse ethnic groups engage in mutual exchange, reducing economic disparity.
Common festivals, cultural performances, and communal feasts further strengthen inter-community bonding.
The event acts as a peace-building mechanism, preserving Assam’s traditional social fabric.
7.4 Role of Jonbeel Mela in Rural Development
Aspect | Role of Jonbeel Mela |
|---|---|
Livelihood Generation | Provides economic opportunities through trade, tourism, and cultural activities. |
Infrastructure Development | Encourages better road connectivity, sanitation, and market facilities in rural areas. |
Women Empowerment | Enhances participation of women artisans, traders, and performers, promoting financial independence. |
Cultural Preservation | Ensures survival of traditional practices, preventing cultural erosion in modernization. |
The festival contributes to sustainable rural growth, acting as a bridge between tradition and modern development.
8. Assam Tea and Global Recognition
8.1 Geographical Indication (GI) Tag for Assam Tea
Assam Tea was granted the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag in 2007 under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.
The GI tag certifies that Assam Tea originates from Assam and has unique flavor, aroma, and texture due to its climatic conditions and soil composition.
This protects authentic Assam Tea from counterfeiting and unauthorized branding in the global market.
8.2 Export and Global Demand for Assam Tea
Assam is the world’s largest tea-growing region, contributing significantly to India’s total tea production and exports.
Major importing countries:
United Kingdom, Russia, Iran, UAE, Germany, USA, Japan.
Demand is high in Europe, North America, and Middle Eastern countries due to its strong flavor and high caffeine content.
Varieties of Assam Tea exported:
CTC Tea (Crush, Tear, Curl) – Used for making strong black tea and masala chai.
Orthodox Tea – Premium hand-processed tea, preferred in high-end global markets.
Green Tea – Growing demand due to its health benefits.
Category | Major Export Markets | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
CTC Tea | UK, UAE, Iran, Russia | Strong, used in milk tea and masala chai |
Orthodox Tea | Germany, USA, Japan | Premium, hand-processed tea |
Green Tea | China, Europe, USA | Health benefits, growing demand |
8.3 Challenges in the International Tea Market
Market Competition:
Competing with Sri Lanka, China, Kenya, and Vietnam, which produce high-quality tea at competitive prices.
Fluctuations in Global Demand:
Political conflicts, economic downturns, and changing consumer preferences impact Assam Tea exports.
Sustainability Concerns:
Rising demand for organic and pesticide-free tea, while conventional tea production in Assam faces issues due to chemical usage.
Climate Change Impact:
Erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and soil degradation are affecting tea yield and quality.
Need for Branding and Innovation:
Lack of global branding and marketing strategies compared to Darjeeling Tea or Matcha Tea from Japan.
9. Environmental and Sustainability Aspects
9.1 Impact of the Mela on Local Ecology
Jonbeel Mela, being a large gathering, has both positive and negative effects on the local environment.
Major environmental concerns include:
Littering and waste accumulation due to food stalls, packaging materials, and single-use plastics.
Deforestation risks due to temporary structures and increased firewood consumption.
Soil and water pollution from excessive human activities near Jonbeel Lake.
Disturbance to local biodiversity, especially for aquatic life in the lake and surrounding forests.
However, the barter system promotes eco-friendly trade, reducing reliance on excess packaging and industrial goods.
9.2 Measures Taken for Waste Management
Waste Management Initiative | Implementation |
|---|---|
Ban on Plastic Bags | Promotion of cloth and biodegradable bags among traders and visitors. |
Use of Organic Waste Disposal | Encouraging disposal of biodegradable waste separately. |
Community Clean-up Drives | Local authorities and NGOs conduct post-event cleaning activities. |
Eco-friendly Awareness Campaigns | Organizing workshops on waste segregation and sustainable practices. |
Controlled Water Usage | Restricting excessive water consumption near Jonbeel Lake. |
The local administration, in collaboration with environmental activists and local youth groups, ensures effective waste disposal.
9.3 Sustainable Practices in Barter and Trade
The traditional barter system is inherently sustainable, reducing reliance on industrial goods and currency transactions.
Eco-friendly aspects of barter trade include:
Exchange of natural and locally sourced goods like vegetables, rice, pulses, and handicrafts, reducing environmental footprint.
Minimal use of plastic packaging, as most products are traded in natural wrappings like banana leaves or jute bags.
Support for organic farming by promoting indigenous seeds, manure-based fertilizers, and sustainable crop practices.
Preservation of traditional handicrafts, reducing demand for mass-produced, machine-made goods.
These practices ensure Jonbeel Mela remains an environmentally conscious event, preserving both cultural heritage and ecological balance.
10. Challenges and Future Prospects
10.1 Threats to the Barter System Due to Modernization
The traditional barter system, the central feature of Jonbeel Mela, faces threats due to:
Increased monetization – Preference for cash transactions over direct exchange.
Influence of markets and e-commerce – Accessibility to goods from urban markets reduces the need for barter.
Declining agricultural dependence – Shift from subsistence farming to commercial trade reduces the necessity for barter-based exchange.
Standardization of goods and services – Mass production and branding lead to less reliance on locally sourced, handcrafted products.
Despite these challenges, barter trade still retains cultural significance, especially for tribal communities.
10.2 Declining Participation of Younger Generations
Reasons for Declining Participation | Impact |
|---|---|
Urban Migration | Younger generations move to cities for jobs and education, reducing rural festival involvement. |
Changing Socioeconomic Priorities | Preference for modern businesses and careers over traditional barter trade. |
Technological Influence | Digital transactions and e-commerce make traditional trade methods less appealing. |
Lack of Awareness | Limited promotion of Jonbeel Mela in educational institutions reduces interest. |
To revive youth participation, initiatives like heritage workshops, social media campaigns, and academic collaborations can be implemented.
10.3 Scope for Cultural and Heritage Tourism
Jonbeel Mela has significant potential for cultural tourism due to:
Unique historical significance – It is one of the few festivals that still practices the barter system.
Rich tribal traditions – Showcasing Tiwa and other tribal cultures through dance, music, and cuisine.
Scenic location – Held near Jonbeel Lake, making it attractive for eco-tourism.
Handicrafts and indigenous products – Boosts local artisans and weavers by promoting handmade goods.
Promotion through digital platforms, government tourism packages, and cultural festivals can enhance its reach.
10.4 Government Policies for the Conservation of Traditional Festivals
Policy/Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
Financial Grants | Providing funds to tribal communities for organizing Jonbeel Mela. |
Cultural Documentation | Recording oral histories, folk traditions, and trade practices for academic research. |
Tourism Promotion | Including Jonbeel Mela in state tourism brochures and heritage circuits. |
Skill Development Programs | Training youth in traditional crafts, organic farming, and event management. |
Eco-Friendly Regulations | Implementing policies for waste management, restricted plastic use, and environmental conservation. |
The Assam Government and cultural organizations play a vital role in ensuring the preservation and promotion of this centuries-old festival.
11. Conclusion
11.1 Cultural and Economic Relevance in Contemporary Assam
Jonbeel Mela remains a vital cultural heritage of Assam, symbolizing unity, tradition, and sustainable trade.
It plays a dual role in modern Assam:
Cultural Relevance:
Preserves ancient barter traditions, keeping alive an economic system rarely practiced elsewhere.
Strengthens inter-community relations, fostering goodwill between tribal and non-tribal groups.
Showcases tribal heritage, folk music, and dance, promoting Assamese identity.
Acts as a platform for traditional craftsmanship, helping preserve indigenous skills.
Economic Relevance:
Boosts local economy by encouraging trade in organic produce, handloom, and handicrafts.
Provides seasonal income to small-scale farmers and artisans.
Encourages rural entrepreneurship by linking local producers with wider markets.
Attracts tourism-based revenue, benefiting hotels, transport services, and local businesses.
11.2 Future of Jonbeel Mela in a Globalized World
Challenges | Opportunities |
|---|---|
Declining barter practice due to modernization. | Promotion of barter as an eco-friendly alternative to commercial trade. |
Decreasing participation of younger generations. | Organizing heritage workshops, cultural programs, and digital campaigns to engage youth. |
Competition from urban markets. | Expanding Jonbeel Mela’s online presence and linking artisans to e-commerce platforms. |
Environmental concerns like waste management. | Implementing green initiatives, such as plastic bans and waste recycling programs. |
Need for better infrastructure to attract tourists. | Government and private sector investment in tourism facilities, roads, and accommodations. |
Final Thoughts:
Jonbeel Mela, with its deep-rooted traditions and unique barter economy, is not just a festival but a living cultural legacy of Assam.
By integrating modern sustainability practices, digital outreach, and tourism development, the festival can continue to thrive in the 21st century while maintaining its traditional essence.
Citations
Assam Tourism Department. (n.d.). Jonbeel Mela: A Unique Barter Festival of Assam. Retrieved from https://tourism.assam.gov.in
Baruah, S. (2019). Cultural Traditions and Trade Practices of the Tiwa Tribe: A Study on Jonbeel Mela. Guwahati University Press.
Deka, R. (2021). “Barter Economy and its Modern Implications: A Case Study of Jonbeel Mela.” International Journal of Social Studies, 12(3), 45-58.
Indian Council of Historical Research. (2020). The Ahom Dynasty and its Influence on Assamese Traditions. New Delhi: ICHR Publications.