GUWAHATI: In a recent announcement, the General Administration Department of the Assam Government has declared "Ali-Aye-Ligang" a holiday on February 14, 2024 in ten districts of Assam.
The holiday will be observed in the jurisdiction of ten districts, namely Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Sonitpur, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Majuli, and Charaideo.
The decision, sanctioned by the Assam Governor, encompasses the closure of all state government offices, educational institutions, and other establishments within the specified districts on February 14, 2024. The holiday is dedicated to honouring the cultural significance of the "Ali-Aye-Ligang" festival.
Ali-Aye-Ligang, also known as Ali-Ai-Ligang, is a spring celebration linked to agriculture. It is observed by the Mising or Mishing tribal communities in Assam and other Northeastern states of India, marking the commencement of Ahu paddy cultivation.
This festive occasion signifies the start of sowing seeds, with the name of the festival derived from three key terms: "Ali" for legumes, "Aye" for seed, and "Ligang" for sowing.