Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is a festival that marks the Assamese New Year and the start of spring. It’s celebrated in Assam, India and other parts of Northeast India.
Significance
Rongali Bihu is a time of feasting, merriment, and cultural celebration
It’s a time when farmers prepare their fields for paddy cultivation
It’s a time to unite different native communities of Assam
It’s a time to promote ethnic diversity
Celebrations
The first day of Rongali Bihu is called Goru Bihu
On Goru Bihu, bulls and cows are bathed with turmeric, fed with gourds and brinjals, and given new attaching ropes
People rise early, perform ceremonial baths, wear new clothes, and seek blessings from elders
People feast on larus (laddoos), pithas (rice cakes), and jolpan (light breakfast)
The festival is marked by traditional games and cultural events
When it’s celebrated
Rongali Bihu usually falls in the second week of April
In 2024, Rongali Bihu festivities will start on April 14th and extend to the 20th