Beyond the shadows: cultural narratives of Tuloni biya ( puberty ceremony) rituals in Assamese society

Abstract (English)

Introduction
Tuloni biya which means "mensuration marriage ' is an important ritual in Assamese society that marks a girl's first period. This practice is rooted deeply with the time when child marriage was common in Assam. In those days parents would arrange marriage for their daughters before they reach puberty. They actually married them off in traditional ceremonies. However the girls would stay at their parent's home until they got their first period. When that happened, a special celebration was held, treating them as married women, and only after this ceremony they were sent to their husband's house. That is why even today, this ritual is often called a "second marriage" .
Over time, as child marriage was abolished, the meaning and way of performing Tuloni biya have changed. Yet the ritual still exists in different forms. This study will cover how the " Tuloni biya" has evolved over three generations - how the traditions, meanings and social views around it have shifted. By collecting oral stories, observing ceremonies and understanding both emic and etic perspectives , this research aims to show how culture adapts to time while still holding onto it's past.

Research objectives:

1. To analyse the historical origin of Tuloni biya and it's connection to child marriage .
2. To document inter generational changes in the practice of Tuloni biya .
3. To explore the cultural meanings associated with the rituals .
4. Look into the role of gender in Tuloni biya .
5. To apply kinship and marriage theories as well as ritual theory .
6. To incorporate both emic and etic perspectives to the study.


Theoretical framework:

This study applies theses theories
1. kinship and marriage theory by Levi strauss ,
2. Ritual theory by Van Gennep , Turner and Durkhiem ,
3. Symbolic anthropology by Geertz and Douglas and
4. The emic and etic approach by Kenneth pike


Methodology

This study employs ethnographic fieldwork, including participant observation of Tuloni biya rituals, the collection of oral histories and structured interviews , case study approach and emic and etic perspectives along with relevant secondary sources .


Findings and expected contribution

The study is expected to show clear changes in how Tuloni biya is understood and practiced across generations. Early results suggest that although the ritual has adapted to modern ideas , many key symbols - such as keeping the girl in a dark room and marking the transition from girlhood to womanhood remains strong. This research will help us understand how traditions can change while still holding on to their rooted meaning . By using both emic and etic views , the study will add important insights to our understanding of cultural heritage, kinship and ritual change.