Digitised archive maker on mission to preserve forgotten past of Assam
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Guwahati: At a time when memories are increasingly digitised, Avinibesh Sharma, a history enthusiast from Jorhat, is preserving Assam's past in its original form — with time, care and dedication.
In 2015, while pursuing a history degree in Delhi, Sharma launched the website 'Vintage Assam'. It began as a modest online initiative to share old photographs, artefacts, and archival records with context and commentary. Over time, it transformed into a robust archival journey built on steady determination.
Driven by belief that history should go beyond textbooks, Sharma now sets out to create a unique archival space — part archive, part library, part cafe — where visitors not only read but also experience history.
"During my four years in Kolkata as a heritage conservator, I observed how museums and architectural structures were deeply respected. That atmosphere left a lasting impression, and my idea was shaped along similar lines," he said.
His growing collection, which cradles the rich history of the state, includes original photos, letters, maps, newspapers, and land revenue documents — some dating back to the 19th century and even earlier.
He claims that while some of items are brought, others are given to him by the families who believe that their documents would be well preserved.
Sharma has made quite a memorable collection like the cabinet ministers of the Assam govt taking to the football field in 1962, pictures of Lakshminath Bezbaruah of 1931 and old pictures of Guwahati and more. "We will be beginning an archival section on Bhupen Hazarika, from Sept on his birth centenary, and we have collected most of the books written by him and on him, then there are few photographs which were given by his family members, along with his vinyl records of his songs," he added.
As compelling as his initiative is, Sharma emphasises that documentation is a crucial first step before any conservation work can begin. He points out that in Assam, many historical documents remain undocumented, making them vulnerable to complete loss. "Most of the papers that reach us are already in a deteriorated condition. The challenge lies in extending their life expectancy before it is too late, and this is what we do in a phased manner," he added.
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