Abstract:

            Since about 1970 installing statues and monuments in public places has become very popular in Assam. This paper contains a descriptive account of statues and monuments installed in Guwahati after 1970. Installing statues is a colonial custom, which is adopted by the local Assamese nationalism engaged in identity politics. The local icons represented with same western-imperial tools, now symbolize the identity of the Assamese nation. In Guwahati, the statues and monuments depict various incidents observed in the political scenario of Assam. The paper presents analysis that shows how the idea of representation made through art objects in public sphere is associated with constantly changing political affairs of the state. It also shows how the image can be understood simultaneously under the disciplines of art and state. The paper shows how the icons are derived from the histories and myths of politics, culture and literature and how those construct the spectacle of the local.