Bihu, the most colorful and vibrant harvest festival of Assam, is celebrated with great pomp and fervor across the state. The festival spans three days and is celebrated during the mid of April every year, marking the end of the harvesting season. Assam's rich cultural heritage and traditions are brought to life during this occasion, making it a captivating spectacle for locals and tourists alike.

1. BIHU – A CELEBRATION OF ASSAMESE CULTURE

Bihu is not just a festival; it's a representation of Assamese culture, traditions, and way of life. During Bihu, the state comes alive with traditional music, rhythmic dance performances, colorful attire, and mouth-watering delicacies. The festival is a testament to the resilience, unity, and joyous spirit of the Assamese people.

2. BOHAG BIHU – THE ASSAMESE NEW YEAR

Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is the most significant of the three Bihu festivals. It marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is celebrated in mid-April. The festival kick-starts with Magh Bihu, a pre-Bihu celebration that signifies the end of the harvesting season. Rongali Bihu's main highlight is the erection of "Meji," a temporary hut where young people gather for the "Husori" dance competition.

3. THE THREE DAYS OF BIHU

a. RONGALI OR BOHAAG BIHU: THE FIRST DAY

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohaag Bihu, is the first day of the Bihu festival. It is celebrated on the first day of the month of Bohag, which falls in mid-April. Rongali Bihu marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is a time for feasting, dancing, and music.

b. GORUS BIHU: THE SECOND DAY

Gorus Bihu is the second day of the Bihu festival. It is also known as "Kati Bihu" or "Manuh Bihu." Gorus Bihu is dedicated to the worship of cows, which are considered to be sacred animals by the Assamese people. Many traditional games are played during Gorus Bihu, including bullfights and tug-of-war.

c. BOHAAG OR RONGALI BIHU: THE THIRD DAY

Bohaag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is the third and final day of the Bihu festival. It is celebrated on the last day of the month of Chaitra, which falls in mid-April. Bohaag Bihu is a time for feasting, dancing, and music. It is also a time for people to visit their relatives and friends and exchange gifts.

4. ACTIVITIES AND CUSTOMS DURING BIHU

Bihu is a time for celebration, and many traditional activities and customs take place during the festival. Some of these activities include:

a. TRADITIONAL GAMES:

Traditional games such as buffalo fighting, egg fighting, and tug-of-war are played during Bihu.

b. HUSORI DANCE COMPETITION:

The Husori dance competition is one of the highlights of Bihu. Young men and women perform traditional Assamese dances in a bid to win the competition.

c. FEASTING:

Bihu is a time for feasting, and traditional Assamese dishes such as "pitha," "laru," and "doi chira" are prepared and enjoyed.

5. BIHU: A SYMBOL OF ASSAMESE IDENTITY

Bihu is more than just a festival; it's a symbol of Assamese identity. The festival brings people of all ages, ethnicities, and religions together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage. It's a time for families and friends to come together, share memories, and create new traditions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. When is Bihu celebrated?

Bihu is celebrated in the mid of April every year.

2. What are the three days of Bihu?

The three days of Bihu are: Rongali or Bohaag Bihu, Gorus Bihu, and Bohaag or Rongali Bihu.

3. What are some of the traditional activities and customs during Bihu?

Some of the traditional activities and customs during Bihu include playing traditional games, participating in the Husori dance competition, and feasting on traditional Assamese dishes.

4. What is the significance of Bihu?

Bihu is a symbol of Assamese identity and brings people of all ages, ethnicities, and religions together to celebrate their rich cultural heritage.

5. Where is Bihu celebrated?

Bihu is celebrated in the state of Assam, India.