Assamese Indigenous Literature and Global Modernism

Abstract Assamese indigenous literature, rooted in oral traditions, folk performances, and myths of origin, provides a vibrant window into the cultural psyche of Assam. Unlike written forms of literature shaped by elite institutions, these indigenous creations embody community memory, ecological wisdom, and spiritual values transmitted across generations. They are not just texts but living performances that connect people to their environment, ancestors, and collective identity. In the twentieth century, Assamese literature entered into conversation with the intellectual and aesthetic energies of global modernism. Modernism emphasized experimental form, subjective consciousness, and a questioning of established traditions. When these global ideas intersected with the indigenous cultural expressions of Assam, they created a unique literary field marked by negotiation, conflict, and synthesis.This paper critically examines the dynamic relationship between Assamese indigenous literature and global modernism. It traces continuities and ruptures between oral traditions and modernist writing, emphasizing both aesthetic techniques and cultural themes. The research highlights the creative strategies of Assamese writers such as Nilmani Phookan and Indira Goswami, who simultaneously engaged with indigenous sources and modernist sensibilities. It also discusses the risks of cultural dilution alongside the opportunities for renewal and global recognition.The study argues that Assamese indigenous literature demonstrates resilience and adaptability in the face of modernist transformations. Rather than being overshadowed by global modernism, it has rearticulated its presence by absorbing and transforming external influences. In doing so, Assamese literature has not only preserved its cultural identity but has also become a significant voice within the broader field of world literature.