The air was filled with laughter, tradition and the earthy smell of Boka Bihu when Boka Bihu was celebrated in the grounds of Sri Sri Auniati Satra on Majuli Island in Assam. Hundreds of people and devotees gathered to celebrate this 372-year-old festival. This festival is celebrated in a very special way to welcome the Assamese New Year i.e. Bohag month.
A festival wrapped in mud, a symbol of purity and unity
The special thing about Boka Bihu is that instead of traditional worship, people apply cow dung and mud on each other’s bodies. This tradition is considered a symbol of connection with the earth and peace, purity and spiritual healing. Considering the soil as a symbol of purity of nature, it is believed that it purifies both the body and the soul. Through this process, people connect with each other and express gratitude towards nature.
Unique tradition of celibate monks
The Udasi Vaishnava sadhus of the Auniati Satra, who are celibate and do not marry, celebrate this festival in their own way. One sadhu said, “First of all, I wish you all a Happy Bohag Bihu. This is our Satra tradition which we have been following since the beginning. Since there are no women here, we make a mixture of cow dung and mud and apply it on each other and celebrate Bohag Bihu in this way. We start it by applying a Tilak to our Guru.” This tradition has become more deeply rooted with time.
A celebration of roots in the cultural capital of Assam
Majuli is considered the cultural capital of Assam and many forms of Bihu are seen here. But Boka Bihu has a special place. This festival is not just a celebration but a symbol of a lifestyle and thinking in which man, soil and culture are combined. This tradition going on for generations has proved that real happiness and purity lies in connecting with nature. Boka Bihu is still alive in the hearts of the people of Majuli and remains a medium to keep the coming generations connected to their roots.
