Bihu- Origin and Significance

India is a land of festivities. Bihu, one of the major festivals in the state of Assam, is known as the “National Festival of Assam.” Here is some information about Bihu.

History of Bihu Festival

Assam is a state with rich cultural diversity and numerous ethnic groups. Yet, the Bihu festival is celebrated across the state. It is an identity of Assam. 

Originally, Bihu was a synthesis of cultures - Tibet-Burman and Tai. But, the indigenous form of the festival continues among the Chutias, Sonowal Kacharis, and Deoris. 

According to the folklore, Bordoisila, the daughter of the Earth, visits her mother’s home in Assam. The arrival of Bordoisila in spring marks the beginning of Bihu and her departure after two days ends the festival. During spring, Assam experiences strong gales that marks the beginning of Bihu. Also, the period marks the harvesting season in Assam, and hence Bihu festival is also associated with the harvesting season.

The term “Bihu” originated from the Sanskrit word “Bishu”, which means that people ask for prosperity from the Gods during the harvesting season. As per belief, the word Bihu is a combination of two words, bi meaning “ask” and hu meaning, “give.”

The Festivities

The Bihu festival is celebrated by the Assamese people irrespective of their religion, caste, or creed. It is also celebrated overseas by the Assamese diaspora community living worldwide. 

Assamese celebrate three kinds of Bihu in a year - Bohaag or Rongali Bihu celebrated in the middle of April; Magh or Bhogali Bihu celebrated in the middle of January month; and Kaati or Kongali Bihu, which is celebrated in the middle of October month. Out of these, Rongali Bihu is celebrated on the Assamese new year, and the spring festival is the most important. The Bhogali Bihu or the Magh Bihu is the one that is about food. The Kong or Kati Bihu reflects a season of short supplies and is an animistic festival. 

Since Assam is fertile land, the occupation of the people here is mostly agriculture. Bihu celebrates the change of seasons. All three types of Bihu signify critical phases in the farming calendar of Assam. The term Bihu is also used to imply Bihu dance, otherwise called Bihu Naas.

The festivities begin with people taking a holy bath with raw turmeric and urad dal paste. Later, they seek the blessings of their elders and exchange gifts. Women prepare delicacies like Chira, Mangsho, Pitha, etc., during the festival. 

The highlight of the festival is Bihu dance, performed by both men and women. It is a delight to watch. The color red, symbolizing joy and vigor, is the central theme of the dance. The costumes of both men and women majorly contain red color.

Bihu dance is performed to the tunes of the music played using local instruments. The brisk steps and rapid hand movements are enchanting.

Thanks to the continuing tradition of the young Assamese, the history of Bihu festival will remain forever.