THE RELIGIOUS WORLDVIEW OF THE DIMASAS: INSIGHTS FROM DIBARAI VILLAGE OF DIMA HASAO DISTRICT OF ASSAM

Abstract

The state of Assam in Northeast India is home to various communities with diverse socio-cultural and religious institutions. It can be considered an apt study area for linguists and anthropologists, given its varied languages, dialects, and ethnic groups. Among the many communities, the Dimasas primarily inhabit the Dima Hasao district of Assam. They are also found to be settled in the adjoining districts of Karbi Anglong, Nagaon, Cachar, and Karimganj (now Sribhumi). The Dimasas, who belong to the Mongoloid group and the Tibeto-Burman linguistic family, are known for their own language, culture, and traditional beliefs and customs. The present study aims to throw light on the socio-religious aspects of the Dimasas residing in the Dibarai village of Dima Hasao district of Assam.