History of the Biates One of the Oldest Hill Tribes of Assam

Abstract

Biates are a small hill tribe of Assam. They inhabit mainly in the western part of North Cachar Hills of Assam and spreading into the other side of the river Kapili in the Jaintia Hills District of Meghalaya. The river Kopili locally known as Kangkalang or Tuipuidung, which flows in between their habitat towards the Umrangsho dam is the geographical boundary of the states of Assam and Meghalaya. As far as their locations are concerned, they can be termed as the sentinels of the south western hills of Assam. Their total population in these two areas is low, and nearly half of the total population lives within the Assam territory. The small Biate community of these regions speaks the Biate language and follows its old customary laws with a blend of influences unleashed by spread of Christianity since 1890. The book gives a thorough description of the Biate community, its society, culture, religion, customs, folklore and relevant history. It is a comprehensive guide to learning about Biates of Assam and is bound to leave the reader dazed.