Assamese monks on mission to save rare culture and language

via Frontline, 25 March 2023: The Tai Phake community in Assam are trying to bring their mother tongue back from the brink of extinction. The Tai Phake rely on family tradition and advice from monks.

It is widely believed that the Tai Phake migrated from Myanmar to India’s Northeast around 1775, crossing the Patkai range that forms a natural barrier between the two lands. They follow the Hinayana sect of Buddhism, like the Tai people of Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos. The community members are mostly involved in paddy farming in the village.

“The largest village is Namphake, with around 70 households and 600 individuals. It was established in 1850,” said Gyanapal Bhukkhu, a monk.

Chakhap’s roots are the cornerstone of his identity. But ask a Tai Phake teenager to read or write Tai, and chances are they will only stumble through a few basic words and phrases. The situation is not unusual.

Source: Assamese monks on mission to save rare culture and language – Frontline