Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has appealed to end the Bihu festival going on in the state. He thanked everyone for the enthusiastic participation of the people in the cultural programs going on for the last one month. The Chief Minister said that Bihu was celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal across the state and now it is time for us to end this festival in a dignified manner. He humbly requested everyone to cancel all the Bihu programs to be held from May 10. He also said that we should conclude it with the same spirit with which we have celebrated this festival.
Why is Bihu celebrated three times
Bihu is the most prominent festival of Assam which is celebrated three times a year and it is related to agriculture. The first is Bohag Bihu which is also called ‘Rongali Bihu’. It is celebrated in mid-April and it marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year. During this time people express their happiness through traditional songs and dance. The second Bihu is ‘Kati Bihu’ also known as ‘Kongali Bihu’. It is celebrated in October and is related to the growing season of crops. This Bihu is simpler and more religious than the other two. The third Bihu is ‘Magh Bihu’ or ‘Bhogali Bihu’ which is celebrated in January and is a post-harvest festival with a hearty meal and social gatherings.
Over the past month, we have joyfully celebrated Bihu across Assam through numerous cultural events. I sincerely thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation and contributions.
However, the time has now come to conclude this festive season. I humbly appeal that all…
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 9, 2025
Bohag Bihu is a confluence of love and energy
Bohag Bihu is very special especially for the youth. During this time boys and girls wear traditional clothes and sing songs and dance. The tradition of folk song-dance called ‘Hoochri’ is also seen at this time in which groups of young men and women go from house to house and give blessings. This Bihu is considered a symbol of love and friendship and is also seen as a connection with nature. Wearing new clothes, preparing delicious dishes and meeting relatives are the characteristics of this festival.
Kongali and Bhogali Bihu are a reflection of faith and joy
Kongali Bihu is calm and religious. On this day, diyas are lit in the Tulsi plant and fields and prayers are offered for a good harvest. This is the time when the old crop is ending, hence it is also called ‘Gareeb Bihu’. On the other hand, Magh Bihu is a festival of joy and food. During this time people build huts called ‘Bhelaghar’ and have a community feast. Bonfires are lit at night and in the morning it is offered to Agnidev. This festival is full of traditional games and dishes which make it very special.
