29. Semiotic Analysis: A Study to Identify the Design Elements of Namghar in Assam

This paper is regarding the application of visual ethnographic research to facilitate preservation of the cultural identity of structures of Namghar, which is an important sociocultural institution. Design elements of Namghar are essential and symbolic for binding the entire community especially belonging to various areas of Assam. However, rapid urbanization and changing lifestyle have led to variations in design elements of Namghar. This study on these variations in design elements will be of interest in preserving the essence and harmony among diverse communities as well as heritage of Assam. The objectives of this study are to compare variations in design elements especially semantic variations of Namghar located at different locations within Assam. Field observations of external overall structure, elements as well as interior structure were made. Similarities and differences among key vernacular architectural design elements were compared and discussed. Cultural aesthetic elements were explored with visual deconstruction of architectural elements between Namghar in various locations. It is identified and discussed with reference to semiotic analysis. Also, it is used for constructing Namghar culture in structured way. This paper seeks to arouse the issues of cultural loss of Namghar and possibility of forming, meaning as a binding design aspect among the vernacular architecture of Namghar.