Bohaggiyo Bishu Festival Of Assam- Deori Tribes Colourful Spring Celebration & Cultural Heritage.
About Bohaggiyo Bishu Festival Of Assam- Deori Tribes Colourful Spring Celebration & Cultural Heritage.
Bohaggiyo Bishu, also known as the Spring Festival of the Deori community, is one of the most vibrant and culturally significant celebrations in Assam. Observed in mid-April, the festival coincides with the Assamese New Year, marking the season of new beginnings, hope, and prosperity. The week-long celebration showcases the rich traditions, music, and dance of the Deori people—one of the four main branches of the Chutiya tribe—believed to have originated from the ancient Boro race.
The term Bishu is derived from the Chutiya words Bi meaning extreme and Su meaning rejoicing, symbolizing the festival’s spirit of joy and renewal. Like other spring festivals in Assam, Bohaggiyo Bishu continues for seven days and is filled with traditional rituals, music, dance, and prayers. However, unlike the mainstream Bihu festival, the Deori Bihu begins only after performing the Than Puja, which must start on a Wednesday. This ritual marks the purification of the sacred altar and invites divine blessings for a bountiful harvest and community well-being.
One of the most striking highlights of the Bohaggiyo Bishu festival is the Deodhani Nritya or Deodhani Dance, performed by women believed to be possessed by spiritual forces during the ritual. Their rhythmic movements to the beat of traditional drums symbolize divine energy and spiritual ecstasy. The Husori or Carol Song Party adds another layer of cultural charm—groups of young men and women go from house to house singing traditional songs to bless households and spread joy.
Every four years, the festival includes the ritual sacrifice of a white buffalo during the Than Puja, an ancient tradition believed to substitute the older custom of human sacrifice. The act symbolizes devotion and gratitude to the deities for good harvests, protection, and community prosperity.
Cultural & Religious Significance of Bohaggiyo Bishu
Bohaggiyo Bishu is not only a celebration of the changing seasons but also a spiritual journey deeply connected with the Deori belief system. The festival unites communities through dance, devotion, and festive gatherings, symbolizing harmony between humans, nature, and the divine.
Major Celebration Locations
The festival is prominently celebrated in Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, and Nagaon districts of Assam. Each of these regions becomes a hub of cultural performances, community feasts, and religious rituals during the seven days of festivities.
Bohaggiyo Bishu reflects the living heritage of Assam’s indigenous tribes, blending spirituality, dance, devotion, and community joy. The festival stands as a symbol of cultural preservation and a reminder of the deep-rooted harmony between people and nature.
Bohaggiyo Bishu Quick Info Table
| Festival Name | Bohaggiyo Bishu Festival |
|---|---|
| Community | Deori Tribe |
| Region Celebrated | Assam (Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Nagaon) |
| Type of Festival | Cultural, Religious, Spring Festival |
| Duration | 7 Days |
| Main Ritual | Than Puja |
| Major Attractions | Deodhani Dance, Husori Songs, Community Feasts |
| Special Ritual (Every 4 Years) | White Buffalo Sacrifice |
| Time of Celebration | Mid-April (Assamese New Year) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
FAQs on Bohaggiyo Bishu
Q1. What is Bohaggiyo Bishu?
A1. Bohaggiyo Bishu is a week-long spring festival celebrated by the Deori community of Assam, marking the Assamese New Year with dance, rituals, and prayers.
Q2. When is Bohaggiyo Bishu celebrated?
A2. It is celebrated every year in mid-April, coinciding with the Assamese New Year and harvest season.
Q3. Who celebrates the Bohaggiyo Bishu Festival?
A3. The festival is primarily celebrated by the Deori tribe, one of the four branches of the Chutiya community in Assam.
Q4. What are the main attractions of Bohaggiyo Bishu?
A4. The main highlights include the Than Puja, Deodhani Nritya, Husori song parties, and community feasts.
Q5. What is the significance of the buffalo sacrifice in Bohaggiyo Bishu?
A5. Once every four years, a white buffalo is sacrificed during Than Puja as an ancient tradition symbolizing devotion and gratitude to the deities.
Q6. What does the term “Bishu” mean?
A6. The word “Bishu” is derived from the Chutiya words “Bi” (extreme) and “Su” (rejoicing), representing the spirit of joy.
Q7. Where is Bohaggiyo Bishu celebrated?
Q8. How can tourists reach the festival locations?
A8. Tourists can reach via Dibrugarh Airport or by train to Lakhimpur or Dibrugarh, with regular road transport options.
Q9. Is there any entry fee for Bohaggiyo Bishu?
A9. No, the festival is open to all visitors without any entry fee.
Q10. Why is Bohaggiyo Bishu important for Assamese culture?
A10. It preserves the ancient traditions of the Deori tribe and promotes cultural unity, spirituality, and community harmony.