My Review of Assam India: Beyond the Surface

For quite some time, I have been closely associated with Assam, a state steeped in history and beauty. Over the years, I have gained a deep appreciation for the people of Assam and their rich cultural heritage. However, the image of Assam as portrayed by some can often be misleading. Let me share my honest and comprehensive review of this marvelous state.

Understanding Assam

One of my Assamese friends once explained Assam to me in a unique way:

Aimless men Shameless Smell less flowers Always raining Mosquitoes Paradise

While these may seem like harsh descriptors, they paint a picture of a complex state that has to deal with various challenges. However, it is important to acknowledge the positive aspects of Assam as well. The state is home to myriad tea gardens and is a significant contributor to India's economy through its abundant oil supplies.

Debunking Assam's Myths

Recently, Assam has been in the spotlight for its NRC (Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019) controversy. It is often portrayed as a liberal, secular state, but this comes with a caveat. According to reports, more than two lakh illegal immigrants from Bangladesh have settled in the state. Some individuals, using this as a leverage, oppose the NRC to maintain a certain status quo. It is crucial to understand that the real Assam is a far cry from this portrayal, as illustrated by the image here.

Guwahati: A Double-Edged Sword

Guwahati, the capital and largest city of Assam, has its strengths and weaknesses. While it is a hub of culture and economy, the city also has its fair share of issues. Here is a review based on personal experience and observations over the last two years:

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Good Things: Guwahati is modern, with many urban features. It serves as a gateway to the northeastern region of India. Challenges: The city faces traffic chaos and expensive or unsafe public transport, especially for women. The environment can be daunting, with men often behaving maliciously. The food scene, while evolving, can still be hit-and-miss for new residents.

Despite these challenges, it is noteworthy that the Guwahati Air Force Station sits on leased land, including a railway and airport quarter. The area around the station is notably less desirable compared to other parts of the city.

Loving Assam and Regards to the People

Beyond the urban landscape, Assam is a place of stark beauty and rich cultural heritage. I have great respect for the Assamese people and their vibrant music, food, and art. Unfortunately, I have seen them fall victim to political rhetoric and suffer under an inefficient state administration, exemplified by the current Chief Minister who seems more focused on his position than the well-being of the state.

My aspiration is for the people of Assam to understand the realities and vote with caution. While I love my birthplace and am a proud Assamese, the current situation is concerning. It is my sincere hope that people of Assam will rise above the manipulation and exploitation by political parties for their own benefit.

Embracing Assam and Its Uniqueness

To sum up, Assam is a complex state with a diverse and rich culture. It is a place of contrasts, where one can experience both the beauty of nature and the chaos of city life. To those who think Guwahati is just another city, I urge you to understand its unique characteristics and appreciate its tourist attractions and cultural offerings.

In conclusion, whether you love Assam or not, it is a state worth exploring and understanding. Let us strive to uncover the true essence of this remarkable state, beyond the surface.