Rongali Bihu, widely known as the most vibrant festival of Assam, is truly incomplete without the exquisite adornment of Assamese jewelry.
These jewelry pieces, crafted with meticulous care, serve as a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Intricately hand-made, each piece tells a story, often depicting the mesmerizing flora and fauna indigenous to Assam.
The traditional designs of Assamese jewelry are characterized by their simplicity yet adorned with vibrant red gemstones such as ruby or mina, adding a touch of elegance and allure.
The use of black, red, and green colors on gold jewelry not only enhances its beauty but also resonates with the traditional attire worn by the various tribes and communities of the northeastern states.
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Women play a central role in Bihu celebrations, and their attire is incomplete without Assamese jewelry that adorns them.
Necklaces such as the ‘Dhol biri’, ‘Jun biri’, and ‘Doog doogi’, are worn with pride, each piece symbolizing a connection to the land and its people.
‘Bakhor moni’, a red stone with cultural significance, is a common feature in these ornaments, adding a pop of color and charm.
Additionally, women adorn their hands with ‘muthi kharu’, a traditional accessory that reflects the grace and beauty of Assamese culture.
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Earrings are another essential element of Assamese jewelry, with pieces like ‘Thuria and ‘Keru’ adding a touch of sophistication to the wearer's ensemble.
However, it's worth noting that wearing ‘Thuria’, known for its weight, can often result in stretched earlobes, a testament to the dedication of women to uphold tradition and culture.
Furthermore, the art of hairstyling is an integral part of Assamese culture, with women often adorning their buns with delicate white flowers like ‘Kopou phool’, ‘Nahor phool’, or ‘Keteki’, adding a touch of natural beauty to their look.
Henna leaves called ‘Jetuka’ hold a special place in Bihu celebrations, symbolizing not only beauty but also the rich medicinal heritage of Assam.
These leaves, known for their vibrant color and therapeutic properties, are a common sight during Bihu festivities, adorning the hands of every dancer with grace and elegance.
As Bihu celebrations have evolved over time, so too have the customs and traditions associated with them.
While traditional practices like applying sindoor on the lips and adorning oneself with Brohomthuri remain prevalent, modern influences such as makeup application have also become commonplace among younger generations, adding a contemporary flair to the festivities.
The attire of both men and women during Bihu celebrations is incomplete without the iconic Assamese outfit known as ‘Tini bostro’.
Consisting of Riha, Mekhela, and Sador; this ensemble is a symbol of cultural pride and identity.
Originally, women did not wear blouses, but with changing times, the trend of incorporating red blouses, Riha, and Muga mekhela into the ensemble has become more widespread.
Similarly, men's attire has also evolved, with traditional garments like Gumseng and Dhuti giving way to more modern alternatives like full sleeve vests and Dhuti, reflecting the changing dynamics of Bihu celebrations.
The significance of Assamese jewelry and attire in Rongali Bihu cannot be overstated.
These elements serve not only as a means of self-expression but also as a celebration of the rich cultural heritage and traditions that define Assamese identity.
From intricate jewellery pieces to elegant attire, every aspect of Bihu celebrations is a testament to the enduring spirit of Assamese culture and tradition.