INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH CULTURE SOCIETY

Abstract :  The Tai people living in Assam, represents a distinct indigenous group. Their identity is deeply entwined with cultural heritage, language, and religious practices, especially Theravada Buddhism. These include the Tai Phake, Aiton, Khamati, Khamyang and Turung communities. The persistence of these communities in preserving their oral histories, practices, and socio-cultural institutions, despite political marginalisation and colonial disruptions that severed previous historical links, is the focus of discussion here. Religion plays a vital role in Tai society, with Buddhist monasteries (Vihars) serving as centers for community life and cultural transmission. Studying the Tai language is a significant part of preserving identity. Although they belong to the Tibeto-Chinese family, their language is influenced by Pali and Burmese due to historical contacts. This linguistic heritage complements an extensive corpus of folk literature, manuscripts and oral traditions, which serve as important repositories of collective memory. Tai identity experiences in the pages of history: an increasing number of professions and community-led organisations strive to preserve and promoting Tai culture, language and history in the political and social dynamics of Assam. The Institute of Tai Studies and Research and the initiatives of various Tai organisations actively seek recognition and cultural revitalisation. The challenges faced by the Tai Buddhist communities highlight the importance of political and cultural integration to preserve their heritage and identity in the diverse socio-political environment of Assam.