Dr. Ramala Sarma, a philosophy professor at Nowgong College in Assam, has embarked on a unique mission: to bridge the gap between ancient Buddhist wisdom and modern life, while simultaneously reviving a traditional Assamese art form. Her creation? The Assam Amulet, a line of handcrafted bell metal objects imbued with Buddhist symbolism.
These beautifully crafted amulets are not just ornaments; they are symbols steeped in Buddhist philosophy, designed to enlighten and empower their wearers.
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Sarma’s inspiration stems from the time-tested practice of using symbolic objects to convey profound teachings. These symbols, once confined to religious traditions, are now finding a wider audience, transcending cultural boundaries and resonating with people seeking peace and self-improvement.
The Assam Amulet capitalizes on this trend. Made from bell metal, a craft with a long history in Assam dating back to the 7th century, each amulet is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans from Sarthebari. This industry, once flourishing, faced challenges due to competition from cheaper, machine-made products. Dr. Sarma saw an opportunity to revitalize this art form while creating a product with deeper meaning.
The amulets themselves are based on well-known Buddhist symbols, each with a specific significance. The Dharma Chakra, for example, represents the Buddha’s teachings, while the Bodhi Leaf symbolizes enlightenment. Owning and using these objects serves as a constant reminder of the Buddha’s wisdom, encouraging mindfulness and a peaceful existence.
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The journey to create the Assam Amulet wasn’t without its challenges. Sarma had to convince the skilled but tradition-bound artisans to embrace new designs. Her perseverance, however, paid off. Today, eight unique amulets are available, including the Dharma Chakra (representing the Buddha’s teachings), the Bodhi Leaf (symbolizing enlightenment), and the Vajraghanta (or thunderbolt bell, signifying spiritual power).
“It’s about connecting the skills of the artisans with the Buddhist teachings. Through the Assam Amulet, we can take this handicraft, our pride, beyond the boundaries of our culture,” explains Dr. Sarma.
Dr. Sarma said that Assam Amulets are not exclusive to Buddhists. “Their purpose is to serve as a universal guide for anyone seeking a life filled with wisdom and peace. The beauty and elegance of the amulets also make them attractive as decorative items, adding a touch of serenity to any space,”she says.
The future of the Assam Amulet looks promising. Buddhist scholars have praised the initiative, commending the use of handmade objects imbued with meaning and passion. The growing interest in meditation, mindfulness, and alternative healing practices also bodes well for the amulets’ acceptance, not just in Assam but across the globe.
Whether displayed in a home, used as a meditation tool, or incorporated into rituals, the Assam Amulet offers a unique blend of spiritual wisdom, artistic beauty, and cultural heritage. It’s a testament to Dr. Sarma’s vision: to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, and in doing so, empower both individuals and artisans.