Bohag Bihu Or Rongali Bihu - The Festival Of Joy And Renewal In Assam

Bohag Bihu, popularly known as Rongali Bihu, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated festivals in Assam. Observed annually in mid-April, it marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the onset of spring. This joyous occasion coincides with the Hindu solar New Year and is celebrated in various forms across India—such as Baisakhi in Punjab, Puthandu in Tamil Nadu, and Pohela Boishakh in Bengal.

The festival is celebrated over an entire month, with various customs, rituals, and folk performances that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Assam.

Agricultural Roots and Significance of Bohag Bihu

Assam being an agrarian society, all three Bihus—Rongali (Bohag), Kongali (Kati), and Bhogali (Magh)—are linked to agriculture. Rongali Bihu is celebrated when the cultivation season is at a pause, allowing farmers to relax and rejoice. It is a time when food stocks are abundant, and communities come together to celebrate prosperity and hope.

The term ‘Rongali’ derives from the Assamese word ‘Rong’, meaning joy or celebration, and ‘Bohag’ refers to the first month of the Assamese calendar. Together, Bohag Bihu represents the joy and renewal that come with a new agricultural cycle.

Rituals of the Bohag Bihu Festival

1. Garu Bihu – Day of the Cattle (April 14):

The first day is dedicated to cows and bullocks, who are vital to agricultural work. On this day:

Cattle are taken to nearby rivers or ponds for ceremonial bathing.
Their horns and hooves are painted and adorned with garlands.
Special meals including brinjal, gourd, and turmeric are offered to them.
Old ropes are removed, and they are tied with fresh ‘tara pogha’ (ropes made from a local creeper).

2. Manuh Bihu – Day of Humans (April 15):

This day celebrates human rejuvenation:

People wear new clothes and take traditional baths.
Elders are honored, and blessings are sought.
Chira, curd, jaggery, and Pithas (traditional rice cakes) are enjoyed.
The Husori performances are formally initiated at the Namghar (community prayer hall).

3. Gosain Bihu – Day of the Deities:

This day is reserved for spiritual practices and worship of household deities for a blessed year ahead.

Cultural Expressions of Bohag Bihu

Bihu Dance & Songs:

Bihu Geet (Bihu songs) are romantic folk songs sung by young boys and girls.
They perform the Bihu dance wearing traditional Muga silk and mekhela chador.
Instruments like dhol, pepa, taal, gogona, hutuli, toka accompany the performances.

Mukoli Bihu (Open-Air Celebrations):

Unmarried youths gather in open fields to perform and enjoy the Bihu dance. These events are known for their vibrant atmosphere and romantic undertones.

Jeng Bihu:

A form of Bihu celebrated exclusively by women. Traditionally performed in village courtyards, women surround the dance area using bamboo sticks called ‘jeng’.

Husori:

Groups of village elders (usually men) go from house to house, singing Bihu carols known as ‘Husori geet’. They offer blessings in exchange for traditional offerings like tamul-paan presented in a xorai (brass offering tray).

Bihu in Urban vs. Rural Assam

In urban areas, modern Bihu celebrations have taken a different form. Well-organized Bihu committees and clubs host events, competitions, and concerts where professional and amateur artists showcase traditional music and dance. However, in rural Assam, the authentic charm and emotional depth of Bihu remain largely preserved.

Bihu Cuisine and Delicacies

Food plays a major role in Bihu festivities. Traditional dishes include:

Chira (flattened rice) and curd
Pitha (rice cakes filled with sesame or coconut)
Laru (sweet coconut balls)
These are shared with family and neighbors, enhancing the spirit of community.

Conclusion

Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu is not just a festival; it is the soul of Assamese culture. It embodies the values of community, love, tradition, and prosperity. Whether in a small rural village or a bustling city, the spirit of Bihu brings every Assamese heart together in song, dance, and celebration.

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