The Moria Muslims of Assam : A Study on the Cultural Variability and Drift
Contents: Foreword/M.K. Raha. Acknowledgements. 1. Introduction. 2. Geographic setting of the area. 3. Population characteristics. 4. Characteristics of the society. 5. Regional variation of the society. 6. Conclusion. Bibliography. Glossary.
"The present work on the Moria Muslims of the Brahmaputra Valley provides an interesting study, from the population geographic point of view. Beginning from the geographical setting and economic and social conditions of the area, the data on the study includes the interpretation and analysis of the distribution, density, growth and size of the Morias, their demographic socio-economic, socio-cultural characteristics. An attempt is made to show the distinctive character of this group of population from the rest of the area. Besides the collecting and reading of various relevant unpublished and published materials on this community, the researcher had to stay for a long time with them to get detailed information about them. The information thus acquired was systematized by data analysis, laboratory work and with the help of cartographic and statistical model for the interpretation of data.
The history of this community tells us that nine hundred Muslim invaders were taken as prisoners at Sibsagar District of Assam by the Ahom King after a series of encounters. The king engaged them in different types of jobs but due to their ignorance in these jobs, the disgusted king released them, and under this new physical setting, social situation and economic conditions, they ultimately settled down permanently about four hundred and fifty years ago forming a new Muslim segment--the Morias, who were braziers by occupation. Presently they are distributed in fifty-two villages in nine districts of Assam.
Considerable degree of blood and cultural assimilations have been observed between the Morias and the neighbouring people particularly the Assamese Hindus in their life cycle like pre-natal, birth, adolescence, marriage, death, festivals and superstitions. Blood assimilation took place by way of marriage with the Assamese Hindus from the vary long past. They observe the Bihu and the other festivals like the Assamese Hindu caste groups. They also believe in superstitions and black magic.
In this book their economic conditions also have been discussed, considerable degree of assimilation has been observed among the Morias in respect of culture, language, food habit, dress, personal adornments, etc. with the neighbouring Assamese Hindu society. Their common language in Assamese. At present their original language, Duan has become obsolete and a few of them can speak in Duan to some extent among themselves.
It is urgently required to make systematic plans and policies to improve the economic condition and the spread of higher education among the Morias. Development schemes should be based on their present socio-economic situation for their betterment. Emphasis should be given on the development of their economy and education.
This book gives to the readers a very clear idea about the minor groups, particularly a minority. It has also highlighted the various problems faced by the little known community, particularly in the Northeastern part of India. The book will immensely help not only the academicians and scholars, but at the same time, it will act as a very useful account to the planners, administrators, social workers and others." (jacket)
