Bohag Bihu: Rongali Bihu is a festival of merriment and heralds the Assamese New Year and the onset of spring.

I. Introduction

1. Explanation of what Bohag Bihu is and its significance

Bohag Bihu is a popular festival celebrated in the Indian state of Assam, marking the beginning of the Assamese New Year. The festival usually falls on the 14th or 15th of April each year and is also known as Rongali Bihu. It is a significant festival for the people of Assam as it signifies the start of the agricultural season and the end of the harvest season. Bohag Bihu is a time for celebration, thanksgiving, and offering prayers to the gods for a good harvest season in the coming year.

The festival is also significant because it marks the onset of spring, a season of new beginnings and rejuvenation. People celebrate the festival by engaging in various traditional rituals and customs, such as dancing, singing, and feasting. Bohag Bihu is a time when people forget their differences and come together to celebrate the joy of life and new beginnings.

2. Brief history of the festival

Bohag Bihu has been celebrated in Assam for centuries and has its roots in ancient agricultural traditions. The festival is believed to have originated from the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for over 600 years from the 13th to the 19th century. During this time, the festival was celebrated as a spring festival to mark the beginning of the agricultural season.

Over time, the festival evolved and took on new meanings, becoming a celebration of the changing seasons and a time for social unity and cultural harmony. Today, Bohag Bihu is celebrated not only in Assam but also by people of Assamese origin living in other parts of India and around the world. It has become an important festival in the Assamese cultural calendar and a symbol of Assamese identity and heritage.

II. Preparation and Celebrations

1. Preparation for the festival

Preparation for Bohag Bihu usually starts several weeks before the festival. Here are some of the things that people typically do to prepare:

Cleaning and Decorating: People clean their homes and decorate them with flowers, traditional Assamese motifs, and earthen lamps called “diyas.” They also decorate the entrance of their homes with bamboo poles called “bihu dhol” and “bihu xorai” (a brass utensil used for serving tea).
Shopping: People shop for new clothes and gifts for their family and friends. The markets are filled with colorful fabrics, jewelry, and handicrafts, which people buy to wear during the festival.
Food Preparation: Traditional Assamese cuisine is an essential part of Bohag Bihu celebrations. People prepare various delicacies, including pitha (rice cakes), laru (sweet balls made of coconut and jaggery), and other sweets. They also prepare traditional meals like “chira-doi” (parched rice with curd), “pitha-paak” (rice cakes with milk), and “luchi-aloo dum” (deep-fried bread with spicy potato curry).
Rehearsing for Bihu Dance: Bihu dance is an essential part of the festival, and people start rehearsing for it several weeks in advance. The dance involves synchronized movements, and it is performed by men and women together.

Overall, preparation for Bohag Bihu is a joyous and festive time when people come together to celebrate the beginning of the new year and the start of the spring season.

2.Traditional customs and rituals during the festival

Bohag Bihu is a festival that is steeped in tradition, and there are several customs and rituals associated with it. Here are some of the most significant ones:

Bihu Dance: The Bihu dance is an essential part of the festival, and it is performed by men and women together. The dance involves synchronized movements, and it is accompanied by the sound of traditional musical instruments like the dhol, pepa, and taal.
Meji: On the eve of Bohag Bihu, people build a structure called a “meji” using bamboo, hay, and wood. They then light a fire in the center of the meji and offer prayers to the gods for a good harvest season.
Goru Bihu: On the day of Bohag Bihu, people decorate their cows and bulls with flowers and vermillion and take them to the nearby river for a bath. This ritual is called “goru bihu,” and it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity.
Xaat Bihu: On the second day of the festival, people visit their relatives and friends and exchange sweets and greetings. This ritual is called “xaat bihu,” and it is a time for socializing and strengthening family and community ties.
Jeng Bihu: The last day of the festival is called “jeng bihu,” and it is a time for people to reflect on the past year and offer prayers for the coming year. People also take part in cultural events and games, such as traditional sports like egg-fights and bullfights.

Overall, Bohag Bihu is a time for people to come together and celebrate their culture and heritage. The festival is a symbol of social unity and cultural harmony, and the customs and rituals associated with it reflect the deep-rooted traditions and values of the Assamese people.

3.Traditional attire and decorations

Bohag Bihu is one of the major festivals celebrated in the Indian state of Assam. It marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is celebrated in mid-April every year. Traditional attire and decorations are an important part of this festival.

Traditional Attire: Men usually wear dhoti and gamocha (traditional Assamese towel) and a shirt or a kurta. Women wear Mekhela Chador, which is a traditional two-piece saree, woven from Assam silk. The Mekhela Chador is adorned with beautiful designs and motifs. The attire is usually in bright colours, which represents the joy and vibrancy of the festival.

Decorations: Decorating the house with flowers and banana leaves is a significant part of Bohag Bihu celebrations. People make beautiful Rangolis with coloured powders or flowers outside their homes. They also decorate the main entrance of their houses with a bamboo structure called Gamosa, which is adorned with flowers and leaves.

Another traditional decoration is the use of earthen lamps, called Akash Banti, which are placed in front of the homes to welcome the new year and to signify the victory of good over evil.

In conclusion, the traditional attire and decorations of Bohag Bihu represent the rich culture and traditions of Assam, and are an integral part of the festivities.

4.Traditional food and drinks

Bohag Bihu, the Assamese New Year, is a festival that is celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm and joy in Assam, a state located in the Northeastern part of India. Traditional food and drinks are an integral part of the celebrations.

Here are some of the traditional food and drinks that are prepared and consumed during the festival of Bohag Bihu:

Pitha – Pitha is a type of rice cake that is made with rice flour, jaggery, and coconut. It is a traditional Assamese dish that is prepared during the festival of Bohag Bihu.
Laru – Laru is a traditional Assamese sweet made with coconut, sesame seeds, and jaggery. It is a popular snack during the festival of Bohag Bihu.
Fish curry – Assam is known for its love for fish, and fish curry is a must-have during the festival of Bohag Bihu. The fish curry is prepared with local fish, tomato, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices.
Aloo Pitika – Aloo Pitika is a popular side dish in Assam, which is made with mashed potatoes, mustard oil, onions, green chillies, coriander leaves, and salt. It is a simple and delicious dish that is commonly prepared during the festival of Bohag Bihu.
Xaj Pani – Xaj Pani is a traditional drink of Assam, which is made by boiling water with jaggery and lemon juice. It is a refreshing drink that is consumed during the festival of Bohag Bihu.

In conclusion, the traditional food and drinks of Bohag Bihu represent the rich culinary heritage of Assam, and are an essential part of the festivities.

III. The Seven Phases of Bihu

1. Explanation of the seven phases of Bihu, which occur over the course of a month

Bihu is a major festival celebrated in the Indian state of Assam, and it is characterized by the performance of traditional dances, music, and other cultural activities. Bihu is celebrated three times a year, and each Bihu has its own significance and rituals. The three Bihus are known as Rongali Bihu, Kongali Bihu, and Bhogali Bihu. Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is the most important and popular of the three Bihus, and it is celebrated in mid-April every year. It is also the beginning of the Assamese New Year.

The celebration of Rongali Bihu is divided into seven phases, which occur over the course of a month. The seven phases are:

Chot Bihu – The first phase of Rongali Bihu is known as Chot Bihu, which is celebrated for seven days. During this phase, people clean their houses and decorate them with flowers and other decorations.
Goru Bihu – The second phase is known as Goru Bihu, which is celebrated on the first day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is dedicated to the worship of cows and bulls, which are considered sacred in Assamese culture.
Manuh Bihu – The third phase is known as Manuh Bihu, which is celebrated on the second day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is dedicated to the worship of human beings and their relationships.
Kutum Bihu – The fourth phase is known as Kutum Bihu, which is celebrated on the third day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is a day for family reunions and the exchange of gifts.
Senehi Bihu – The fifth phase is known as Senehi Bihu, which is celebrated on the fourth day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is a day for visiting friends and relatives.
Mela Bihu – The sixth phase is known as Mela Bihu, which is celebrated on the seventh day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is a day for participating in fairs and other cultural activities.
Chera Bihu – The seventh and final phase is known as Chera Bihu, which is celebrated on the last day of the Assamese month of Bohag. It is a day for bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new year with joy and enthusiasm.

In conclusion, the seven phases of Rongali Bihu represent the rich cultural heritage of Assam and the joy and enthusiasm with which the festival is celebrated. Each phase has its own unique significance and rituals, and together they make Rongali Bihu a truly special and unforgettable festival.

2. Description of each phase and its significance

Sure, I’d be happy to provide a detailed description of each phase of Rongali Bihu and its significance:

Chot Bihu: Chot Bihu marks the beginning of the festival and is celebrated for seven days. During this phase, people clean their houses and courtyards, and decorate them with rangolis, flowers, and other traditional decorations. The significance of Chot Bihu is to prepare for the festive season and welcome the New Year with a fresh start.
Goru Bihu: Goru Bihu is celebrated on the first day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is dedicated to the worship of cows and bulls. Cows and bulls are considered sacred in Assamese culture and are believed to bring prosperity and good luck. People bathe and decorate their cattle with garlands, and feed them special food like flattened rice, sugarcane, and other seasonal produce. The significance of Goru Bihu is to express gratitude towards the cattle that play a vital role in the agrarian economy of Assam.
Manuh Bihu: Manuh Bihu is celebrated on the second day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is dedicated to the worship of human beings and their relationships. On this day, people visit each other’s homes, exchange gifts, and share traditional Assamese delicacies like pitha, laru, and doi. The significance of Manuh Bihu is to strengthen social bonds and foster harmony among family and friends.
Kutum Bihu: Kutum Bihu is celebrated on the third day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is a day for family reunions. People wear new clothes, prepare delicious food, and gather with their extended family to celebrate the occasion. The significance of Kutum Bihu is to reinforce familial ties and create a sense of togetherness.
Senehi Bihu: Senehi Bihu is celebrated on the fourth day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is a day for visiting friends and relatives. People travel to different places to meet their loved ones, exchange greetings and gifts, and spend quality time together. The significance of Senehi Bihu is to promote community bonding and foster goodwill among people.
Mela Bihu: Mela Bihu is celebrated on the seventh day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is a day for participating in fairs and other cultural activities. People dress up in traditional attire, participate in folk dances like Bihu, and enjoy various fun activities like tug-of-war, egg-breaking, and buffalo fights. The significance of Mela Bihu is to showcase Assamese culture and heritage, and to promote unity and solidarity among people.
Chera Bihu: Chera Bihu is celebrated on the last day of the Assamese month of Bohag and is a day for bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new year with joy and enthusiasm. People clean their homes, prepare traditional food, and light lamps to ward off evil spirits. The significance of Chera Bihu is to express gratitude for the blessings of the previous year, seek blessings for the upcoming year, and start afresh with renewed vigor and positivity.

In conclusion, each phase of Rongali Bihu has its own unique significance and rituals, and together they make the festival a grand celebration of Assamese culture, tradition, and values.

IV. Importance of Bohag Bihu

1. Significance of the festival in Assamese culture

Rongali Bihu is the most important festival of Assam and holds great significance in the culture and traditions of Assamese people. The festival marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm in all parts of the state.

The festival is a celebration of the spirit of life, happiness, and abundance, and is deeply rooted in the agrarian culture of Assam. It marks the onset of spring, the season of new beginnings, and is a time to express gratitude towards nature and its bounties.

Apart from its agricultural significance, Rongali Bihu is also a celebration of Assamese culture and traditions. It provides a platform for showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the state through various cultural activities like folk dances, music, and traditional sports.

The festival also plays a vital role in fostering social harmony and unity among people. It brings together people from all walks of life, irrespective of their caste, creed, or religion, and provides a platform for them to celebrate together in a spirit of joy and goodwill.

In conclusion, Rongali Bihu is more than just a festival. It is a celebration of life, nature, culture, and unity. It is a time for renewal, for rekindling old bonds, and for building new ones. And it continues to hold a special place in the hearts and minds of Assamese people, even in the fast-paced modern world of today.

2. Explanation of how Bohag Bihu is celebrated across the state

Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is one of the most important festivals celebrated across the state of Assam. The festival is celebrated for seven days, starting from the last day of the Assamese month of Chaitra and continuing through the first week of the Assamese month of Bohag.

The celebrations of Bohag Bihu vary across the state, but some of the common traditions and practices include:

Cleaning and Decoration: The festival kicks off with the cleaning and decoration of houses and courtyards. People decorate their homes with rangolis, flowers, and traditional motifs to welcome the New Year and create a festive atmosphere.
Goru Bihu: The first day of the festival, known as Goru Bihu, is dedicated to the worship of cows and bulls. People bathe their cattle, decorate them with garlands, and feed them special food like flattened rice, sugarcane, and other seasonal produce.
Manuh Bihu: The second day of the festival, known as Manuh Bihu, is a day for visiting family and friends. People dress up in traditional attire, exchange gifts, and share traditional Assamese delicacies like pitha, laru, and doi.
Husori: Husori is a traditional Assamese practice in which a group of people visit homes and perform traditional songs and dances to wish good luck and prosperity to the households. Husori is an important part of Bohag Bihu celebrations and is performed during the festival.
Mela Bihu: The seventh day of the festival, known as Mela Bihu, is a day for participating in fairs and other cultural activities. People participate in folk dances like Bihu and enjoy various fun activities like tug-of-war, egg-breaking, and buffalo fights.
Traditional Food: Bohag Bihu is also a time for enjoying traditional Assamese food. Pitha, laru, and doi are some of the popular dishes prepared during the festival. People also enjoy local delicacies like fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and different varieties of chutneys.

In conclusion, Bohag Bihu is a festival of joy, abundance, and togetherness. It is a time for celebrating Assamese culture, traditions, and values, and for fostering social harmony and unity among people.

3. Importance of the festival in fostering social unity and cultural harmony

Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is an important festival in Assam that plays a crucial role in fostering social unity and cultural harmony among people. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and participation across the state, and it brings people from different communities and backgrounds together.

One of the key ways in which the festival fosters social unity is through the practice of Husori. During Husori, people from different villages and communities come together to perform traditional songs and dances. This not only helps in promoting the cultural heritage of Assam but also helps in building stronger bonds between people of different backgrounds.

Bohag Bihu is also a time for exchanging gifts, visiting family and friends, and sharing traditional Assamese delicacies. People from different communities come together to share food, engage in cultural activities, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Another important aspect of the festival is the celebration of the rich cultural diversity of Assam. The festival provides a platform for showcasing the different cultural practices and traditions of the state, which helps in promoting cultural harmony and understanding among people.

Bohag Bihu also plays a vital role in promoting the spirit of inclusiveness and unity. The festival is celebrated by people of different castes, religions, and communities, and it promotes the idea of living together in harmony and celebrating diversity.

In conclusion, Bohag Bihu is an important festival in Assam that promotes social unity and cultural harmony. The festival provides a platform for people to come together and celebrate the cultural diversity of the state while promoting inclusiveness and unity. It is a time for building stronger bonds between people of different backgrounds and fostering a sense of community and togetherness.

V. Conclusion

1. Recap of the significance of Bohag Bihu

Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is a seven-day festival celebrated in the state of Assam. The festival marks the start of the Assamese New Year and the onset of the spring season. It is a time for celebration, joy, and renewal.

Bohag Bihu is significant in many ways. It is an occasion for people to come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Assam. The festival promotes social unity and cultural harmony among people of different communities and backgrounds.

The festival also has religious significance as it marks the beginning of the agricultural cycle, and farmers pray for a good harvest during the season. Bohag Bihu is a time for honoring and worshiping cows and bulls, which are important for agriculture.

Bohag Bihu is also a time for enjoying traditional Assamese food, such as pitha, laru, and doi, and for participating in various cultural activities like Husori, Bihu dance, and Mela Bihu.

In summary, Bohag Bihu is a festival of joy, abundance, and togetherness. It is an occasion for celebrating Assamese culture, traditions, and values, and for fostering social harmony and unity among people.

2. Personal reflections on the festival and its importance

Bohag Bihu is an important festival that holds great significance for the people of Assam. It is a time for celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the state and promoting social unity and harmony among people of different backgrounds. The festival has both religious and agricultural significance, and it is a time for rejoicing in the abundance and renewal that comes with the onset of the spring season.

One of the most significant aspects of Bohag Bihu is the sense of togetherness and community that it fosters. During the festival, people come together to share traditional Assamese food, participate in cultural activities like Bihu dance and Husori, and celebrate the cultural diversity of the state. The festival provides a platform for building stronger bonds between people of different communities and promoting inclusiveness and unity.

As an outsider, I find the festival to be a beautiful and unique celebration of the Assamese culture and traditions. It is heartening to see how the festival brings people together and promotes a sense of belonging and togetherness. I believe that festivals like Bohag Bihu play an essential role in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of a community, and they provide an opportunity for people to connect with their roots and celebrate their identity.