MAHABAHU : AN EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY

MAHABAHU: AN EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY

MOHAN KHOUND

In the fast-paced world of media and information, where trends come and go, there exists a timeless institution that has not only stood the test of time but has continued to evolve, adapt, and thrive for 175 years of Media in Assam.

Mahabahu, deeply rooted in the cultural heartland of Assam from 1980, has not only weathered the storms of change but has emerged as a powerful torchbearer of culture, knowledge, and community.

This article delves into the extraordinary journey of Mahabahu, shedding light on its role in preserving cultural heritage, disseminating knowledge, and fostering a global community.

Mahabahu’s Roots: A Storied Legacy

Mahabahu’s illustrious journey commenced in 1980, with the publication of its first issue, marking the begining in Assam as a fortnightly Assamese.

From its early days, it served as a soldier of Assam’s rich literary heritage, attracting contributions from luminaries such as Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, Surendra Nath Medhi ( Saurabh Kumar Chaliha), Jatindra Kumar Borgohain, Kanaksen Deka, Deven Dutta, and many more. This remarkable commitment to preserving culture and knowledge is what makes Mahabahu an exceptional platform.

Digital Transformation: Bridging Generations and Cultures

In 2017, Mahabahu underwent a transformative evolution. It transitioned into a bilingual website, www.mahabahu.com, offering content in both Assamese and English. This shift was not merely about keeping up with the times; it was a deliberate effort to bridge generational and linguistic gaps. As the digital era firmly took hold, Mahabahu recognized the need to adapt and evolve to connect with a global audience.

The website, www.mahabahu.com, is not just a digital platform; it’s a global platform now. Readers and writers from India, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Turkey, Iran, Myanmar, and beyond have embraced its content. Mahabahu has transcended geographical and linguistic boundaries to become a bridge of cultural exchange, fostering a sense of global community. Its bilingual approach plays a pivotal role in bridging linguistic divides, ensuring accessibility to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Tackling Global Issues: A Platform for Informed Discourse

Mahabahu’s foray into English-language content has been marked by a commitment to addressing critical global issues. The magazine has dedicated special issues to topics of worldwide significance, from climate change to indigenous rights and the struggles and aspirations of Afghan women.

“To commemorate the monumental milestone of 175 years of media in Assam, Mahabahu undertook a remarkable initiative. It invited articles in both Assamese and English from writers who have been instrumental in shaping the media landscape of Assam and the world. The outcome of this tremendous effort was a book titled ‘175 Years of Media in Assam and Beyond,’ a monumental 1200-page tome. “

This underscores Mahabahu’s role as a platform for informed discussions on global matters. Mahabahu is a platform for Ukraine too, from the beginning of the war. Mahabahu is a platform for Climate Change issues, activities of United Nations, Indigenous People, Iran situation, Myanmar, etc.

A Wealth of Diverse and Renowned Writers

One of the hallmarks of Mahabahu is its diverse array of talented writers. Writer like Rituraj Phukan, Monikangkan Barooah, Swasaati Borkakati, Parismita Goswami, Agrita Chhibber, Dr Sanjeev Kumar Nath, Dr Raktim Ranjan Saikia, Plabita Barua, Apurba Kumar Khound,Dr. Fayeza Fayez, Rita Anwari, Sonia Agmadi, Orooj Hakimi, Paresh Baishya, Pinak Pani Barua, Bikramaditya datta Kakati, Soumyadeep Datta, Gautam Sarma, Kakali Das, Novanita Sarma, Tonoy Chakraborty, Monoj Saikia, Dr Mukul Sarma, Dronali Talukdar, Rezaul Karim, Nayanjit Deka, Juganta Bayan, Kumar Dipak Das, Kalyan Kalita, Kshirod Saikia, Anjan Sarma, Poonam Mayani, Sanghamitra Kashyap and many more enrich its pages, ensuring that it resonates with a wide and diverse readership. These writers bring not only their literary prowess but also their unique perspectives on issues that matter.

Community Engagement: More Than a Magazine

Mahabahu’s impact extends beyond its digital pages. It actively engages with the community through various initiatives, including hosting essay and quiz competitions, commemorating significant milestones, and collaborating with organizations like the Multicultural Educational Development Trust. This dedication to community involvement reinforces its role as a catalyst for fostering a sense of togetherness and shared purpose.

Supporting Local Enterprises: A Partnership for Growth

Mahabahu’s partnership with Powershift, a micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) based in Guwahati, Assam, is a testament to its commitment to supporting local businesses and communities. It serves not only as a platform for writers and readers but also as a driver of economic growth in the region.

Editorial Leadership: Visionaries Guiding the Way

Kakali Das, the editor of the newly launched English Mahabahu magazine, and Anjan Sarma, the Editor-in-Chief ( and Editor of the Mahabahu bi-lingual), provide the magazine with visionary editorial leadership.

Their unwavering commitment to quality journalism and the authentic portrayal of issues is central to the magazine’s enduring appeal. Their visionary approach ensures the magazine remains relevant in the ever-evolving media landscape. The magazine designed by Barsha Sarma is something different, and same words for the printer too.

The Technological Backbone: Shaping the Digital Landscape

Integral to Mahabahu’s digital transformation is Sanjeev Sarma, the CEO of WebX Private Limited, Guwahati. Sarma’s role as a technology expert and a member of Mahabahu’s editorial board is pivotal in shaping the magazine’s digital landscape. His expertise ensures that the platform remains cutting-edge, user-friendly, and accessible to a global audience.

A Wealth of Content: A Tapestry of Voices

In addition to Mahabahu’s ongoing commitment to preserving Assamese culture and fostering global dialogue, the magazine features an array of thought-provoking articles by eminent writers. These thought leaders cover a wide range of topics, ensuring a rich and varied reading experience for the audience.

175 Years of Media in Assam and Beyond: A Landmark Publication

To commemorate the monumental milestone of 175 years of media in Assam, Mahabahu undertook a remarkable initiative. It invited articles in both Assamese and English from writers who have been instrumental in shaping the media landscape of Assam and the world. The outcome of this tremendous effort was a book titled ‘175 Years of Media in Assam and Beyond,’ a monumental 1200-page tome.

This book serves as a historical record and a tribute to those who paved the way for the media’s growth in the region.

The book’s genesis leads us back to the arrival of the first printing machine in Assam , a feat achieved by Nathan Brown of the Baptist Mission. The publication of ‘Arunodoi’ in January 1846 marked the first-ever printed publication in Assamese, a historic event attributed to Nathan Brown and his team.

To celebrate the 175th year of media in Assam, Mahabahu and the Multicultural Educational Development Trust released this monumental book, which documents the incredible journey of media in Assam and beyond with the main support from late Bhupen Das’s family (from Howly town, Assam) and others.

This book is a testament to the missionary zeal of those who ventured into a distant and unknown land almost two centuries ago. Their journey and achievements are a source of inspiration and a testament to the enduring spirit of human endeavor.

Conclusion: A Living Legacy Bridging Cultures and Knowledge

Mahabahu, with its magnificent journey, is more than just a magazine; it is a living legacy that connects generations, bridges cultures, and fosters a global community.

In the digital age, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of media to preserve and promote culture and knowledge. Through the dedicated efforts of its visionary editors, writers, the support of its digital expert, and the invaluable contributions of countless writers, Mahabahu has evolved to become a beacon of culture, knowledge, and community.

Its impact stretches far beyond the digital realm, actively engaging with communities, supporting local businesses, and serving as a powerful platform for the exchange of ideas and perspectives. In an ever-changing media landscape, Mahabahu’s unwavering commitment to its mission is a testament to the enduring importance of preserving culture, disseminating knowledge, and fostering community.

Mahabahu is not just a magazine; it’s a digital guardian of heritage, lighting the path for future generations and connecting the world to rich cultural tapestry. In the age of rapid technological advancements, Mahabahu stands as a beacon of knowledge, cultural exchange, and community engagement, nurturing culture, knowledge, and community in equal measure.

As it celebrates 175 years of media in Assam and looks ahead to the future, Mahabahu’s journey continues, guided by the visionaries at its helm, supported by technological expertise, and enriched by the voices of countless writers. Mahabahu remains a symbol of the power of words and a testament to the enduring appeal of culture, knowledge, and community.

Mahabahu.com is an Online Magazine with collection of premium Assamese and English articles and posts with cultural base and modern thinking.  You can send your articles to editor@mahabahu.com / editor@mahabahoo.com (For Assamese article, Unicode font is necessary)