Role of Folk Songs for Peaceful Living Among the Zeme Tribes of Assam*

The importance of traditional folk media cannot be overlooked in this era. It can contribute to social change, societal reconciliation and reduce conflict. The oral tradition is kept alive through folk tales and folk songs which can help build peace efforts through its thought provoking tales and songs that help in maintaining peace within the community and with the neighbours. In India, traditional folk media is recognized as a potential alternative media to connect with the rural masses and to convey messages at the grassroot level. Despite rapid technological advancement, traditional folk media has not lost its stand till today. It represents the traditional way of life of a community based on customs, beliefs and arts that make up a distinctive culture allowing the whole community to be a part of it, irrespective of caste or creed which builds peace and harmony in the society. Since time immemorial, different cultures have used folk songs as an important means of communication. Among the Zeme Naga community, folk songs have been playing a crucial role in social communication. It is considered to be the most important means of communication which helps in bringing change in an individual and in a community. The folk songs speak about the history, narrate the stories of past incidents, heroic deeds, tragedy, peaceful living, oneness etc. which serves as a lesson to the present generation. This paper will attempt to study the role and importance of folk songs of the Zeme Nagas in peacemaking and reducing further conflict through selected folk songs.