General Knowledge of Assam - Complete Guide

The honor of being the first Assamese comedy film goes to Ito Sito Bahuto, released in 1963 and directed by Nip Barua. Before this film, Assamese cinema primarily focused on mythology, folklore, and social dramas. With Ito Sito Bahuto, the audience was introduced to a refreshing genre filled with humor, light-hearted storytelling, and satire.

The film became a landmark in Assamese cinema, showing that comedy could be just as engaging and impactful as serious themes. It balanced entertainment with subtle social commentary, making it relatable and enjoyable for viewers across Assam.

The story of Ito Sito Bahuto (1963)

Mohan Chaliha is a retired Major, with a strict military temperament in everything he does. His son, Biman, studies in Guwahati and shares a rented house (a mess) with three other friends at the home of a widow named Mrs. Gupta. Mrs. Gupta becomes increasingly exasperated trying to discipline the boys.

Major Chaliha suffers from a peculiar condition — whenever he gets angry, he forgets everything. Taking advantage of this, Biman brings money from home twice a month and spends it on food and fun with his friends. But eventually, Biman’s clever tricks are exposed, and Major Chaliha arrives at Mrs. Gupta’s house. On one side stands Chaliha, on the other Mrs. Gupta — a chaotic showdown is about to erupt. Just then, a young woman enters the scene. The situation escalates to the point where Major Chaliha, Mrs. Gupta, the four boys in the mess, and the young woman all end up at the police station.

Back at home, there’s a mischievous girl named Kachanmoti, the Major’s servant Pilot, and a hammer. This hammer plays a special role in the twists and turns of the story — stirring up chaos and ultimately resolving all the problems.

Cast of Ito Sito Bahuto (1963):

• Phani Sharma as Mohan Chaliha (Retired Major)
• Brajen Barua as Biman (Major’s son)
• Sharad Das
• Mowazzin Ali
• Girin Barua
• Prabin Bora

Why Is Ito Sito Bahuto Important in Assamese Cinema?

• It was the first Assamese film in the comedy genre.

• The film demonstrated Assamese cinema’s ability to diversify beyond traditional storylines.

• Its success inspired other filmmakers to experiment with humorous narratives.

• It is remembered as a cultural milestone, blending laughter with meaningful themes.

Even today, Ito Sito Bahuto is cherished as a pioneering comedy film that opened the door for humor in Assamese movies. It proved that Assamese audiences loved comedy, paving the way for future light-hearted and entertaining films in the industry.