Chokapara is a village under Lakhiganj Gaon Panchayat, some 7 kilometers distance north from the Bilasipara town (sub-divisional headquarters) in the Dhubri district of Assam, one of the seven sister states of North-East India. It is one of the very old revenue villages of the erstwhile Goalpara district. According to 2001 India census, Chokapara had a population of 1,148 in 253 households. Males constitute ~52 % of the population and females ~48 %. History The name of the village Chokapara came from an interesting story. In local dialect, Choka means sharp and para means village. So it is a sharp village, but not in the sense that people are sharp. According to folklore, in the early days the village was covered by dense forests and the neighbouring villagers scared to visit the village due to the presence of some demons called Daini especially in the evening hours. So, after sunset people did not come out of home or visit the village as the Dainis remained vigilant (sharp). People The village constitutes both Muslims and Hindus of nearly equal percentage and they have been living harmoniously for centuries. The Hindus belong to the Nath community and are traditionally known as Jogi. The Muslims follow the sunni branch of Islam. Traditionally the village has a head called Gaonbuda and a village court which looks after small disputes. Language The people of Chokapara basically speak Goalpariya, which is a dialect of Assamese. Their official language and medium of education are primarily Assamese or English. Culture The culture of the village as part of the broader Assamese culture is a hybrid one, developed over time from traditional Hindu value systems, Islamic influence and some elements of local tribal culture. Symbolism is an ancient cultural practice of this region and is still a very important part of life of the village as they use Gamosa, Xorai, etc. to represent identity, pride, etc. A unique cultural trait of the people is their love for areca-nut and betel leaves. They have great respect towards the traditional silk garments and forefathers and elderly. Economy Traditionally the village depended exclusively on agriculture for livelihood. The land around the village is very fertile. Paddy is the principal crop traditionally grown for consumption as well as sale, although oil seeds (like mustard, sunflower), jute, vegetables and other cash crops are also widely cultivated. These days, the people, especially the younger generation