Culture

The East Indian culture is an amalgamation of various other cultures such as Bengali, Odissi, Bihari etc. The literature of West Bengal has seen a heavy influence of Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chatoopadhyay and some of the major tycoons of Bengali literature. The years of social awakening which was expanded to an extreme by the Bengali people came to be called Bengali Renaissance. Open to assimilation of culture they absorbed the English culture to a great extent after the coming of the British, before going back to their own literature and revolutionizing their regional literature. The vibrant culture of Odissa is a grand expression of their beliefs, their link to the Mauryan Empire. Bihar also is a major precursor of the East Indian traditions, led by a major wave of Buddhism as it started here with the first sermon of the Buddha at Sarnath. Andaman and Nicobar Islands a drastic shift in terms of cultures. Set amidst the surrounding ocean, this space is rich in fisheris. The fisherman have trends of storytelling as they sit by fires in the night.

In Orissa, soulful expressions find way in indigenous theatres namely 'Prahalad-Nataka' or the 'Dhanuyatra'. Music and dance formulate an integral element of the culturally rich state. The culture of ‘devadasis’ (the female temple dancers) gave it one of the most essential dance traditions. The energetic dances such as 'Chhow' and 'Sambalpuri' compounded with tribal dances like 'Ghumura' & 'Paraja' are a whole new level of surcharge. ‘Bali Jatra’ fairs are the links to the ancient maritime connection with the land of Bali. One of the grandest traditions which are renowned across the globe is the 'Rathyatra' of Lord Jagannath which has transformed into the finest expression of the Orissan culture.

Bihar, the birthplace of Buddhism and Jainism, is rich tapestry of traditions, cultures and customs. Bihar is a state keen on the celebration of Indian festivals which are integrally connected with the lifestyles of the people of Bihar. The festivals of Holi, Saraswati Puja, Durga Puja or Dussehra, Deepwali and Bhaiya Dooj are grandly celebrated by the people. “Chatth” is one festival which is unique to Bihar and originated here. Bihar is a vivacious state and its people carry traditions with them wherever they go.

West Bengal, as one of the most culturally prosperous states of India, is box full of surprises. The assimilation of various regions all combining into one or it’s originality intact is what makes this state so special. West Bengal set a luxurious legacy of timeless literature thanks to the coming of the great authors like Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay who contributed valuable shares to the world Literature. This state happens to have its own film industry which is known as 'Tollywood' and it derives from Tollygunge region of the state. Bengal has also been credited to be the forerunner of modern contemporary art and many of the exhibits have found prestigious spots in various art museums.

All of these states come together to be called the East Indian region. Various indian flavors are spread across the East Indian landscape. The culture of East India has drawn many seekers to its mantle. The region with its proximity to the Bay of Bengal provides a calming retreat from the rush of life.