The Intermediary Style (Introduction)

While classifying the vernacular architecture of the state, it has been mentioned that some IndoMongoloid tribal groups like Bodo, Rabha, Sonowal, Thengal, Mech etc. stands apart and present a different scenario in respect to their vernacular architecture. Thus, their residential architecture style does not resemble the Tribal style discussed earlier. Thus, they are not stilt dweller as of now, though there is maximum possibility that these groups were also stilt dweller at one time. However, contemporaneously they construct their architecture on ground, in similar fashion to their racial counterpart. Moreover, they exhibit striking resemblance in respect to the technique, forms, and disposition of the units of the homestead with the “Non-Tribal” style.

The working of the processes of acculturation, Sanskritization, or Hinduization might have initiated such changes in the tradition of these groups” vernacular architecture. These groups have entered the process of social mobilization and gradually entered in caste hierarchy system. However, in spite of apparent similarity with the “Non-Tribal” variety of VA, the vernacular architecture of these groups possesses certain distinctive features of their own. Thus, the rearing of pig and structure of pigsty and chicken coop are generally noticed in the homesteads of these groups. Therefore, the architectural style of these groups, termed ‘Intermediary” variety, demands a separate category and discussion.