The most vibrant festival of Assam is finally here, when the entire state of Assam is in a state of cultural extravaganza marking the arrival of spring, rich with traditional music, dance, and feasting, symbolizing renewal and unity within the community.
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From ‘Kuli’r maat’, to blooming of ‘Kopou phool’, weaving of the ‘Gamusa’, women applying ‘Jetuka’ and adorning themselves with ‘Riha Mekhela Sador’, to people dancing ‘Bihu naas’, Bohag Bihu is the most lively and high-spirited festival celebrated in Assam.
Although the other Bihus are also celebrated largely in Assam, yet this Bihu, also known as the Rongali Bihu is a time of immense unparalleled joy since it marks the onset of spring, the harvest season, and most importantly the start of the Assamese New Year.
It’s roots dig deep into the rich soil of Assamese culture, intertwining traditional rituals with modern-day festivities to create a tapestry of joy and celebration that resonates throughout the region.
In the past ages, during the reign of the Ahom kings, Bihu was a domain primarily inhabited by men, where they showcased their talents through dancing and singing. However, as time progressed, the winds of change swept through the festival, inviting women to partake in its revelry and infusing it with a newfound vibrancy.
The evolution of Bihu into stage performances brought forth a structured framework, complete with competitive elements and organized dances.
Songs like Lohori, Jujona, and Fokora Jujona, Jura Naam became the heartbeats of the celebration, with men and women engaging in playful exchanges through music and dance.
Despite initial restrictions, women found ingenious ways to participate, forming clandestine groups to dance in their own circles under the veil of secrecy.
The dance movements of Bihu serve as a mirror to the natural world, with each step echoing the rhythms of the earth's abundance.
From the gentle sway of paddy fields to the rustle of leaves in the wind, every motion is a tribute to the harmony between humanity and nature.
Even during the night-time revelries of Rati Bihu, where playful teasing and romantic encounters take center stage, nature remains an ever-present backdrop, infusing the festivities with its timeless essence.
The seven-day extravaganza of Bohag Bihu commences with Goru Bihu, a day dedicated to honouring cows for their indispensable role in agriculture.
Cattle are bathed with ‘Mah Halodhi’, and fed vegetables while singing, “Lau kha Bengena Kha, Bosore Bosore Barhi Ja, Maar Khoru Baper Khoru, Toi Hobi Bor Goru,” as a token of gratitude for their contribution to ploughing the fields.
Following Goru Bihu, Manuh Bihu which is celebrated on the first day of the Bohag Maah, meaning it’s the first day of the Assamese New Year.
It offers a time for personal renewal, with people bathing in ‘Maah-Halodhi, which is paste of raw turmeric for health and prosperity.
As dusk descends, the streets come alive with the rhythmic beats of Husori parties, characterized by traditional dances and music.
Led by a mukhuial wielding a lamp and umbrella, these groups spread joy and blessings as they visit homes, receiving offerings of money and goodwill in return.
The grand finale of Bohag Bihu, ‘Gukhai Bihu’, sees communities gathering in ‘Naam Ghor’ (prayer houses) to offer prayers for a bountiful harvest and prosperity in the coming year.
It's a time for reflection and gratitude, as people come together to seek blessings for the future.
Kaushik Nath, an actor in Assamese Cinema, and a native of Majuli said, “Bihu in Majuli is a little different from how people from other places celebrate Rongali Bihu in Assam. Bihu festivities start from around more than a week ahead of the ‘Bohaag’ month. On the day of Manuh Bihu, many people play with mud. Nikinikhuwa is a village where people engage in the mud-playing ceremony, which is quite unique in its own way. In fact, throughout many Satras of our island district, this ‘Buka Bihu’ is played on the first day of Bohag. Otherwise, the other rituals are almost the same throughout Assam. Like in Goru Bihu cows are bathed are fed, and this is followed all over Assam. In this way, the ceremony is celebrated for almost 7 days with fun and fervour.”
Bohag Bihu is not merely a festival; it's a celebration of life, nature, and community spirit.
It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring traditions that bind Assamese communities together, bridging the gap between the past and the present.
As Assam gears up for another year of festivities, the spirit of Bohag Bihu shines brightly, illuminating the hearts and minds of all who partake in its joyous celebration. From its humble beginnings to its grandeur today, Bohag Bihu stands as a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Assamese culture, inviting all to join in its splendour in the unity it brings.
