India is a country where its festivals are related to nature, seasons, and society. Among the many festivals of India, Bihu from the northeastern state of Assam is a beautiful example of how Indian festivals are related to nature and seasons. Bihu is one of the most important and favorite festivals of the people of Assam. 

Bihu is related to farming and the agricultural season. Assam is a farming community, especially a rice-growing state. So, the festival of Bihu celebrates the different stages of farming, i.e., sowing, growing, and harvesting crops. 

To the people of the USA, Bihu would mean a harvest festival celebrating the seasons of the year. Bihu would resemble other festivals that celebrate the beauty of nature and the harvest season, where people come together and enjoy the festival by eating and celebrating their traditions and customs.  

The Three Bihu Festivals of Assam

The festival of Bihu does not occur once a year. Bihu occurs three times a year, and each of these Bihu festivals represents a different stage of the farming season. These three Bihu festivals of Assam are:

1. Kongali Bihu

2. Bhogali Bihu

3. Rongali Bihu 

Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, is the most popular of the three Bihu festivals. This festival of Bihu occurs in April and celebrates the Assamese New Year and the arrival of the season of spring. This festival of Bihu is the most colorful and vibrant of the three Bihu festivals. On the festival of Rongali Bihu, people of Assam wear their traditional dresses, dance to the tunes of traditional songs, and visit their friends and relatives.

Kongali Bihu, which is also called Kati Bihu, is celebrated in October. Unlike the more vibrant and entertaining Rongali Bihu, this festival is quiet and more spiritual. During this time, the crops are still growing in the fields. People pray to have a good harvest. Small lamps are lit near the crops and in the fields as a symbol of hope.

The third Bihu is called Bhogali Bihu or Magh Bihu. It is celebrated in January. During this time, the crops have already been harvested. Therefore, this festival is celebrated with lots of food, bonfires, and socializing. People relax and socialize with their neighbors and family members.

Music, Dance and Cultural Traditions

One of the more interesting aspects of Bihu is the traditional Bihu dance. Bihu dance is quite fascinating. It is full of energy and rhythm. Traditionally, this dance is performed by groups of young men and women. The dance is quite energetic and expresses the feelings of joy, love, and celebration.

The dancers wear traditional Assamese clothing. Women wear the traditional Assamese dress called Mekhela Chador, which is a beautiful two-piece dress. Men wear dhoti and gamocha, which is a cloth.

Music is an important part of the festival as well. Traditional musical instruments used during the festival include the dhol or drum, the pepa, which is made from buffalo horn, and small cymbals. All this is used to create the rhythm for the dance. In addition to the music, songs are sung as well. These songs, known as Bihu geet, may include songs that talk about nature, love, and life in the villages of Assam.

Traditional Food and Festive Feasts

Food is an essential part of Bihu celebrations. During the Bihu season, people enjoy traditional Assamese food, and most of the food is homemade and served to guests and family members. The traditional food is mainly rice, coconut, and jaggery-based.

One of the traditional Assamese food items is pitha, which is mainly rice-based and sometimes contains coconut. Another traditional Assamese food item is laru, which is mainly sesame seeds or coconut and jaggery-based. These traditional food items are an integral part of Bihu celebrations and are often prepared together by family members.

On the other hand, Bhogali Bihu food is quite common, and people gather together at a bonfire called Meji early in the morning. They offer their prayers and then enjoy their food together. This helps in building unity and friendship within the community.

Why Bihu Is Special

Bihu is not just an ordinary food and season-based festival. It symbolizes the culture, identity, and traditions of Assamese people. The Bihu festival helps in keeping traditional Assamese customs alive, and the coming generations are aware of their roots and traditions.

Now, Bihu is celebrated not only in Assam but also in other parts of India and even outside the country by Assamese people. It helps people stay connected to their roots and customs, even if they are far away from their homeland.

For people in the United States, Bihu is an opportunity to get an insight into the rich culture of India. It helps people understand how deeply the festivals are connected to nature and agriculture. Bihu is one of the most beautiful and joyous celebrations in Assam.