It is from the point of view of folk-lore and folk songs, the Karbis are very rich. It has been mentioned earlier that they have their own version of the Ramayana called Sabin Alun which has been handed down from one generation to another orally. However, during the recent years, the Karbi society has undergone transformation and changes. The grip of inertia in which this society was found in the past, has now been slackened. In this connection, the pioneering leadership was given by Late Khorsing Terang who was not only the first Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council but also the first member of the Assam Legislative Assembly from the Karbi community. Among the other leaders, mention may be made of Late Nihang Rongpher, Late Chandra Sing Teron, Late Chatra Sing Teron, Late Dhaniram Rongpi, who were not only the Chief Executive Member of the KAAC, but were the members of the Assam cabinet also, Late Joysing Doloi, Ex.CEM; Late Sai Sai Terang, Ex. Chairman; Late Samsing Hanse, was a member of Assam cabinet; Mr. Biren Singh Engti, Ex.M.P. and Ex.Central Deputy Minister ; Mr. Bidya Sing Engleng, Ex. CEM and sitting M.L.A. ; Dr. Jayanta Rongpi, Ex.CEM and sitting M.P.(Lok Sabha) ; Mr. Holiram Terang, Ex. M.L.A.; Mr, Jagat Sing Engti, sitting M.L.A.; Mr. Dharam Sing Teron, Ex. Chairman and sitting M.L.A. and many others. In the literary field, Padmashree Rongbong Terang, Mr. Longkam Teron, Dr. Phukan Chandra Phangcho, Mr. Lunse Timung, Samsing Hanse, Mr. Jeet Rongpi, Song Bey and many others have made significant contribution for the development of Karbi literature. In this connection, reference of "Karbi Lamet Amei" (Karbi Sahitya Sabha) may also be made. The Karbis have now come forward to accept the developmental schemes of different sectors with a view to changing their own destiny. But at The same time, they are maintaining their culture which distinguishes them as a separate ethnic group. |