Bohag Bihu, the Assamese New Year, arrives today (April 14th, 2024)! Discover mouthwatering traditional dishes like Pithas, Masor Tenga, and Aloo Pitika. Learn how to celebrate with food and festivities!
Assam, India: As the sun rises on April 14, 2024, the vibrant state of Assam gears up to celebrate Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu or Xaat Bihu. This traditional cultural festival marks the commencement of the Assamese New Year and holds immense significance for the indigenous ethnic groups of Assam and other regions in Northeastern India.
The Spirit of Rongali Bihu
The term “Rong” translates to joy in Assamese, and Rongali Bihu embodies this spirit of happiness. The Assamese community joyously commemorates each day of the festival with fervor and enthusiasm. Let’s delve into the seven days of Bohag Bihu:
- Garu Bihu (First Day):
Cattle are honored with a special ritual. People take their cattle to rivers, where they are bathed, decorated with garlands and their horns and hooves are painted.
Heartfelt prayers are offered for the health and well-being of these animals.
- Manuh Bihu (Second Day):
The day begins with an early morning tradition of applying turmeric paste and taking a purifying bath.
Homes fill with the aroma of traditional Assamese delicacies such as Til Laru, Pitha, Murir Laru, Ghila Pitha, and Poka Mithoi. These treats are shared among family and friends as gestures of goodwill.
- Guxai Bihu (Third Day):
This puja is dedicated to the worship of household deities, seeking their blessings for prosperity and harmony.
- Taator Bihu (Fourth Day):
The book highlights the significance of handloom and craftsmanship, a symbol of cultural heritage deeply rooted in the Assamese society.
- Nangolor Bihu (Fifth Day):
Pays tribute to the agricultural equipment essential for agriculture.
- GharosiaJibar Bihu (Sixth Day):
Gratitude is expressed to domesticated animals in recognition of their invaluable contribution to rural life.
- Chera Bihu (Grand Culmination):
Marking the culmination of this vibrant festival, it was celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm.
Communities come together in joyous revelry, dancing, singing, and feasting
Traditional Dishes
No Bihu celebration is complete without delectable Assamese dishes. Families prepare a feast that includes:
Pitha: Rice cakes with various fillings.
Larus: Coconut sweets.
Various types of chutneys and pickles.
As the sun sets on the first day of Bohag Bihu, Assam resonates with laughter, music, and the aroma of home-cooked meals. The air is filled with hope, unity, and the promise of a prosperous year ahead. Let us join hands and celebrate this Assamese New Year with reverence, joy, and gratitude. Bohag Bihu 2024, may it bring abundance and blessings to all!