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Shamadi (in Tiwa), or dormitory, is an important social institution that is patronised by the tribal people in northeast India.
A dormitory is a community living space where the youth learn various life skills and more under experienced hands. The skills range from art and craft to discussing what to look for in a life partner. It is where the youth come together for the common good, and the process helps develop a sense of community among them. The age of the members in these youth dormitories varies from tribe to tribe.
Help to society from shamadi members could be at various levels. It could be a farmer who needs a hand in harvesting, or a person who wants to build a house.
The members pitch in to help the people in need and do not take any compensation for this. While these dormitories have always had relevance in society, acting as a glue, and playing an influential role socially, economically, and culturally, it is a tough act to maintain in a world where influences come from far away through the Internet. Women are strictly prohibited inside the shamadi ecosystem of hill Tiwas.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Community work: Members of the youth dormitory go out to take part in social work at Umsowai village in Karbi Anglong.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Strong bond: Repairs being carried out at a shamadi in Bormarjong village.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Heave ho: A shamadi being set up at Bormarjong village in Karbi Anglong district of Assam.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Making a mark: Shamadi members decorate a pillar.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Silent barrier: Tiwa women in front of a shamadi in Umsowai village. Women are not allowed to enter the dormitories.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Chorus group: Members take part in cultural activities.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Shared songs: Members of the Hill Tiwa community share flutes to perform in a ritual.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Step lively: A dance performance in front of a shamadi at Umsowai village.
Photo: Ritu Raj Konwar
Till next time: A deserted shamadi at Umsowai village in Karbi Anglong.
