Sivasagar, Feb. 27: Your tryst with the history of Assam at Sivasagar need not end at Rang Ghar or Talatal Ghar. A repertoire of objects that have been a part of Assam's diverse past is another attraction that is worth a visit.
A retired engineer of Lakwa Thermal Plant, Durlov Borah, has single-handedly set up a museum at Joysagar in the district, with nearly 7,000 objects.
The museum, named Uttaran, houses ancient coins, arms used during the Ahom period, various species of snakes and seeds of rare trees. It has been set up at Bora's own residence, nearly a kilometre from Kareng Ghar.
"We are working hard to make the museum bigger and better. Our aim is to give visitors a fair idea about our past as well as social life as a whole," Borah told The Telegraph.
The museum was opened in 2003 with a few objects but it has grown significantly over the years with more and more people donating objects.
"Many objects of the museum were donated by the people. They believe their objects will be protected in Uttaran. If someone gets an ancient coin or a rare insect or possesses any antique, they bring it to me," said Borah.
The rich collection of objects representing the state's socio-cultural life is an attraction of the museum. It has various musical instruments used by communities of the state, agricultural tools and objects that were common in an Assamese family till a few decades ago but are no longer seen.
"Many of these objects are unfamiliar to the new generation. Occupations and lifestyle of the people are changing and new technologies are being developed every day. So a gramophone, so common a few decades ago in our society, has become a rare sight now. I am trying to preserve and showcase them," said Borah. Similarly, the nest of a weaver bird, earlier a common sight, is now a rarity with burgeoning townships.
Borah's own sculptures, water from numerous prominent ponds dug during the Ahom rule, samples of various kinds of soil and insects are also displayed in the museum.
Tourists from across the country and 20 other countries like Canada, the US, France and Italy have visited the museum. "I have not taken any help from the government. I believe that the success of setting up of a museum depends on one's interest and dedication," said Borah.
He is working on some new features in his museum like an exhibition hall, library, a hall to hold various events for children and an auditorium.
"It is a wonderful collection. Good to see that an individual has collected so many objects, most of which have disappeared from our village life," said .
