Social Status of Koch Rajbongshi Women with Special Reference to Bongaigaon District, Assam

Abstract

Since the time of human civilization, women have been an integral part of society, culture and tradition and also have been playing a very vital role in molding the society. But at the same time social differentiation and inequality has never left the side of women. Women who constitute 50% of the total population are the most victimized group in our society who are facing some social evils like gender inequalities and the notion of patriarchy. Contrary to this, one indigenous ethnic group inhabiting various parts of the world, including India (Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal, Bihar) Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan known as Koch Rajbongshi had a very bright history in giving an important and dignified status to women. Traditionally Koch Rajbongshi society was a matrilineal society, so from the decision-making process to represent the family, women had a very dignified position. Women were given high status in various cultural rituals, traditions in the community. There was no dowry system in Koch Rajbongshi society. However, due to the influence of other cultures and traditions, and the most importantly due to the process of globalization, Koch Rajbongshi women seem to have lost their dignity which they prevailed earlier. Through this paper the researcher has made an attempt to find the actual picture of the condition of the community and try to find out the actual status given to women within the community.