Women sing Siro senehi mor bhaxa jononi, the title song of Asam Sahitya Sabha, to set a national record, at Mangaldoi Stadium in Darrang district. Picture by UB Photos

Mangaldoi, Dec. 27: Assam today cut a national record with 7,000 women in Darrang district singing in chorus.

The women sang Siro senehi mor bhaxa jononi, the title song of Asam Sahitya Sabha, written by Mitradev Mahanta, on the premises of Mangaldoi stadium as part of a daylong celebration of the Sabha’s 96th Foundation Day.

When Abhijit Baruah, observer for India Book of Records, declared, “Hereby a new national record has been set today at Mangaldoi,” people erupted in euphoria and shouted slogans like Joy aai Asom and Asam Sahitya Sabha jindabad.

Baruah said it was the first time in the country that 7,000 women had sung a song together at the same place without any mistake. “I am proud to declare that the women have created a new national record,” he said.

The performance lasted seven minutes — from 12.44 pm to 12.51 pm. It was directed by a local young artiste, Dinabandhu Saharia. Its music was composed using Darrangi folk equipment like dhepa dhool, bor dhool and mridongo. Sounds of conch marked the beginning and end of the performance. Saharia was upbeat: “I was eagerly waiting for the performance. At last it succeeded in making a national record. Thanks to all.”

Asam Sahitya Sabha secretary Paramananda Rajbonghshi said, “We haven’t found a record in the world where so many women have sung together.”

Dwipendra Narayan Konwar, secretary of Darrang district Sahitya Sabha, said they had anticipated participation of over 5,000 women, but not 7,000. “We started preparations early this month. The women came from across the district,” he said.

Nilima Baruah, a participant, said she was excited to be part of the programme.

Goltaz Begum from Sipajhar, who arrived here early this morning, said, “I am proud to be part of the great moment. It’s a great achievement of my life.”

Former MP Madhab Rajbongshi said, “I have never seen a programme where so many women sang together without any hesitation.”

The day began with Sabha president Imran Shah hoisting its flag. He appealed to the people, especially the new generation, to come forward with a positive attitude to solve the problems of society. He also urged the youths to contribute to Assamese literature.

The celebrations included a performance by singer Sadananda Gogoi and an exhibition, Xamannay Mela, organised by the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Assam, and inaugurated by fisheries minister Basanta Das.

The Sabha will organise its annual session at Khanapara in Guwahati from February 1 to 3.