The Journey of Sylhetis after Independence: A Historical and Cultural Perspective

India's journey to independence was marked by numerous social, political, and economic challenges. One such challenge was the merging of the Sylhet district into the Assam province, following the partition that divided Bengal into East and West. This merge affected the Sylhetis who faced various challenges in their lifestyle, education, and assimilation into the new geopolitical landscape.

Historical Background and the Merging of Sylhet

The Sylhet District of the then Bengal Province was renowned for its rich agricultural and pisciculture heritage. The people of Sylhet were generally well-educated, reflecting their socio-economic development. Assam, though a revenue-deficit province, was managed by a Chief Commissioner. In an attempt to reduce the revenue deficit, the British Government merged the Sylhet district, which was 100% Bengali-speaking, into Assam. This move, however, was made without considering the broader implications on the cultural, educational, and socio-economic aspects of the people of Sylhet.

The Educational and Cultural Impact

Being well-educated and having limited job opportunities, the Sylhetis found themselves in a challenging situation. There were concerns about cultural dominance and the potential for linguistic imposition. The merger took place at a time when Bengali was already the Rajbhasha (official language) in several regions of India. The partition further separated the Sylhetis into East and West Bengal, with the predominantly Hindu Sylhetis facing additional hardships.

Migration and Self-Identify

Many Hindu Sylhetis migrated out of Bengal post-partition, making Assam their first choice for resettlement. This migration was not just a matter of physical relocation but also a choice between cultural and linguistic affinity. Mentioning that some of our family lived in Panbazar, Guwahati, until 2003, it is evident that Assam was a place with whom Sylhetis felt a strong connection.

Community Boundaries and Integration

While Sylhetis possess unique dialects and accents, their cultural boundaries often serve a natural barrier for more integration. Many Sylhetis feel more comfortable within their own communities. However, the Barak Valley, which was once a part of greater Sylhet, brought both similarities and differences. Despite the melting pot, Sylhetis and people from regions bordering Sylhet often find it easier to understand and relate to each other through shared cultural and linguistic ties.

Conclusion

The story of the Sylhetis after independence is a complex one that intertwines with the history of India and the subcontinent. Understanding the context of their merge into Assam, the challenges they faced, and the cultural dynamics that continue to influence their life in Assam, provides a richer insight into the broader narrative of post-partition India.