A for Assam


Assam is one of the 'seven sisters' north-eastern states of India. The name Assam is derived from the word asama, meaning “peerless” in the now extinct Ahom language. The neighbouring states of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya were once part of Assam. The capital, formerly Shillong (now the capital of Meghalaya), was shifted to Dispur, a suburb of Guwahati, in 1972.

Assam is a land with a combination of plains, river valleys and hills. The mighty Brahmaputra forms the lifeline of Assam. And when the same swells by leaps and bounds with the rains each year, it becomes a havoc. Assam is the home to many distinguished flora and fauna and is applauded for its biodiversity. It is well-known for the one-horned rhinoceros. As far as wildlife is concerned, Kaziranga and Manas are World Heritage Sites. It is also the home of many orchids including the famous Foxtail orchid (Kopou phool). And of course, Assam is most well known for its world famous Assam Tea.



Pink Foxtail orchids in bloom back home
Assam is my home state. I have been born and brought up in Assam. I have grown up in a place where greenery is all around you. Hills, trees, flowers, rain, water bodies, birds; all these are a part of regular life. And may be that's why, we have been taking all these for granted. But I understood the true meaning and value of such greenery when I started living in metropolitan cities; Kolkata for studies and now moved to Delhi post-marriage. Everyday when I go out, I feel as if I shall get choked by the dust. I long for rain so that the dust may subside. I long to see green trees outside the balcony. I am nurturing several pot plants to compensate my longing for home in a small way. I even bring back seeds, seedlings and cuttings of plants when I go home. They keep me connected to my true home, Assam.

 I am taking part in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge [April 2014].
Blogging From A to Z Challenge [April 2014]

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