Folk Games of Assam: The Buffalo Fights in Assam

Abstract

Folk games are a significant aspect of traditional cultures, serving as both entertainment and a means of preserving cultural heritage. In Assam, India, these games reflect the people's creativity, their relationship with nature, and their deep-rooted cultural values. This paper explores the variety of folk games in Assam, including Moh Juj, the traditional buffalo fight, which is held during the Magh Bihu festival. Folk games like Kho-Kho, Dhop-Khel, Gella-Chutt, and others, not only provide amusement but also promote physical fitness, cognitive development, and social bonding. While some games, such as egg and bird fights, have faced criticism due to their treatment of animals, they remain an integral part of Assamese culture. The buffalo fight, Moh Juj, has faced increasing opposition due to concerns over animal cruelty and its violation of animal protection laws. Despite the 2014 Supreme Court ban on animal fights, the sport continues to be controversial. The paper emphasizes the importance of finding alternatives to animal-based games while preserving the rich cultural heritage of Assam. It suggests promoting festivals that celebrate cultural traditions without causing harm to animals, thereby creating a balance between cultural preservation and ethical standards.