Assamese Festival

Jeevan River Kite Festival In Guwahati On The Brahmaputra River

The Jeevan River Kite Festival is one of Guwahati's most vibrant annual cultural events, held along the scenic banks of the Brahmaputra River at Machkhowa Riverside Sandbar, opposite the Pragjyoti Cultural Complex. Organized by the Jeevan Initiative, a volunteer-driven association, this festival marks the culmination of the Brahmaputra Campaign for Clean Riversides, transforming environmental awareness into a joyful public celebration.
Jeevan River Kite Festival In Guwahati On The Brahmaputra River festival in Assam

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History & Traditions

Jeevan River Kite Festival: Celebrating Culture, Community, and the Brahmaputra

Now in its 15th edition, the festival has grown into a five-day cultural extravaganza that attracts thousands of visitors, including domestic travelers, international tourists, artists, environmentalists, and local families. The open sky, flowing river breeze, and expansive sandbar create a perfect natural setting for kite flying, performances, community activities, and artistic expression.

Location and Festival Setting

The festival is hosted at Machkhowa Riverside (Lachit Ghat), one of Guwahati's most accessible and iconic riverfront locations. The site offers uninterrupted views of the Brahmaputra, allowing visitors to experience the deep connection between Assam's cultural life and its lifeline river.

This riverside venue plays a crucial role in reinforcing the festival's message: that rivers are not just natural resources, but living cultural spaces that deserve respect, protection, and celebration.

When is Jeevan River Kite Festival Celebrated?

The 15th Jeevan River Kite Festival is scheduled to take place from:

January 23 to January 27, 2026

Spanning five days, the festival coincides with the winter cultural season in Assam, when the weather remains pleasant and ideal for outdoor gatherings, kite flying, and evening performances.

Origins and Purpose of the Festival

Unlike conventional festivals, the Jeevan River Kite Festival is deeply rooted in environmental consciousness. It emerged as a creative extension of campaigns aimed at cleaning and protecting the Brahmaputra riverbanks.

The festival aims to:

  • Promote river conservation and public responsibility

  • Reclaim riverfront spaces for cultural and community use

  • Encourage volunteerism and civic participation

  • Provide a platform for artists, performers, and young talent

  • Celebrate Assamese culture in an inclusive, open-air environment

Over the years, it has become the only continuous riverside cultural festival in Guwahati, held consistently without interruption.

Kite Flying and Community Celebration

Kite flying remains one of the most visually striking elements of the festival. Colorful kites dot the winter sky, symbolizing freedom, hope, and unity. Families, children, and kite enthusiasts gather throughout the day, turning the riverbank into a lively social space.

Beyond kite flying, the festival features:

  • Community games and interactive activities

  • Evening lamp lighting along the river

  • Informal gatherings that encourage dialogue and participation

Brahmaputra Talent Hunt: A Major Highlight

One of the key cultural attractions of the 2026 edition is the Brahmaputra Talent Hunt, an inclusive performance platform open to participants of all age groups.

Theme for 2026

"Zubeen Garg: His Creative Works and Public Statements"

Participants are invited to creatively interpret the musical legacy, artistic influence, and social voice of Zubeen Garg, one of Assam's most influential cultural icons. The theme encourages performers to engage with contemporary Assamese identity through music, movement, and expression.

Accepted Art Forms

  • Singing

  • Instrumental music

  • Dance performances

  • Orchestra and ensemble acts

  • Other creative and performing arts

Performances may be presented solo or in groups, and in any language, making the event accessible and inclusive.

Prizes and Participation

Winners of the Brahmaputra Talent Hunt will receive:

  • Cash prizes

  • Trophies

  • Participation certificates

Registrations are open until January 15, 2026, with participants required to register through the official QR code shared by the organizers. For further details, organizers can be contacted at +91 6002546581.

Cultural and Creative Activities at the Festival

The Jeevan River Kite Festival offers much more than performances. Visitors can explore a wide range of experiences, including:

  • Live music concerts and cultural nights

  • Folk and contemporary performances

  • Craft stalls featuring handmade products

  • Food stalls serving local cuisine and traditional drinks

  • Art installations and exhibitions

  • Workshops, discussions, and awareness sessions

  • Interactive contests and creative challenges

The festival atmosphere seamlessly blends entertainment with reflection, making it suitable for all age groups.

Importance of the Festival for Guwahati

The Jeevan River Kite Festival plays a vital role in shaping Guwahati's cultural identity as a river-centric city. By activating the Brahmaputra riverfront through art and community engagement, the festival redefines how urban spaces can be used responsibly.

It also provides:

  • A public platform for emerging artists

  • A boost to local creative economies

  • Increased visibility for environmental causes

  • A shared cultural experience that strengthens community bonds

Why You Should Visit Jeevan River Kite Festival

Whether you are a culture enthusiast, environmental advocate, traveler, or local resident, the Jeevan River Kite Festival offers a rare chance to experience Guwahati beyond conventional tourism. It celebrates creativity, collective responsibility, and the enduring relationship between people and the Brahmaputra.