Guwahati: The state of Assam is currently immersed in joyous celebrations for its most significant festival, Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, marking the arrival of the Assamese New Year and the much-awaited spring season.
Across Assam, markets are vibrant hubs, displaying an array of traditional items essential to the festivities. These include delectable food preparations, the iconic Gamosa textile, traditional Bihu attire, the rhythmic dhool drums, the melodious pepa horns, and the traditional Assamese Japi headwear, reflecting the cultural richness of the state.
The first day of the week-long celebration, known as Goru Bihu, is dedicated to livestock. In a display of deep respect and gratitude, cattle, including cows and bulls, are ritually washed, adorned with care, and worshipped by families across the region, acknowledging their crucial role in agriculture and daily life.
Rongali Bihu signifies the commencement of the agricultural season and is observed with immense enthusiasm throughout Assam. This multi-day festival, traditionally spanning seven days known collectively as ‘Xaat Bihu,’ commences with Goru Bihu and unfolds with music, traditional dances, an assortment of traditional culinary delights, and visits among relatives, embodying the strong sense of community and the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
Speaking with ANI, a local resident, Vipul Sharma, shared his sentiments, stating, “Vaishakh Bihu is our biggest festival in Assam, celebrated over three to four days. The first day, Goru Bihu, involves washing and worshipping our cows with turmeric and black gram paste. Following this, family members bathe and apply turmeric. We also pay our respects to elders and enjoy traditional foods like pitha and curd. It’s a time for visiting relatives and celebrating together.”
Sharma further added, “In the evenings, Bihu functions and fairs bring everyone together. My own preparations are underway. While my daughter is in Canada, my wife and I will celebrate here, and I will also visit relatives in Naugaon village. The market seems a bit subdued this year, but I anticipate the excitement will build gradually as everyone finds their own way to celebrate.”
A significant ritual on Goru Bihu involves the washing of cattle and the application of a paste made from fresh turmeric, black lentils, and other traditional ingredients. During this practice, people sing traditional songs to their animals, including the meaningful lines, “Lao kha, bengena kha, bosore bosore barhi ja, maar xoru, baper xoru, toi hobi bor bor goru,” which translates to, “Eat gourd, eat brinjal, grow year by year, your mother is small, your father is small, but you will become a large, strong cow.” This tradition underscores the deep connection between the people of Assam and their livestock.
In preparation for the widespread festivities, Bihu celebration committees in Guwahati and various other parts of the state have organized extensive week-long Rongali Bihu programmes, promising a vibrant and engaging experience for all.
In a significant move to support the cultural celebrations, the Assam government has extended financial assistance of Rs 1.5 lakh to each of the 2,241 Bihu Committees across the state, ensuring the grand and successful observance of the Rongali Bihu festival.