Bihu festival, also observed as Assamese New Year, will fall on April 14, 2018. It is a harvest festival that is celebrated to thank Lord for the successful season and to welcome the Spring Season. The term Bihu is derived from the Sanskrit term ‘Bishu’ which translates to “ask God for prosperity during the harvesting season.”
Unlike many other festivals, Bihu is celebrated three times in a year. These festivals include Magh Bihu or Bhogali observed in January, Rongali or Bohag Bihu celebrated in April, and lastly Kongali or Kati Bihu that falls in October and reflects a second of short supplies.
This harvest festival usually aligns with a lot of other similar occasions observed in other states like Puthandu in Chennai, Poila Baisakh in Bengal, Vishu in Kerala, and Baisakhi in Punjab. Bihu festival is typically celebrated on a single day but it is spread across 7 day-celebration. These include ‘Chot Bihu’, ‘Goru Bihu’, ‘Manuh Bihu’, ‘Kutum Bihu’, ‘Senehi Bihu’, ‘Chera Bihu’, and ‘Mela Bihu’.
Cities like Dispur and Guwahati enthusiastically celebrate this fest with great joy. People wake up early, get dressed in new clothes, seek blessings from their elders, and exchange gifts. Another important aspect of it is the range of authentic Assamese dishes like Aloo Pitika, Xaak, Khar, Masor Tenga, and Mangsho.
People also dress up in traditional attire (usually red and white colored) and perform the folk dance and sing folk songs. Since the state is rich in terms of greenery and wildlife, several tourists visit here during the festival to enjoy the scenic beauty and amazing culture and traditions of Assamese.
