'Rongaali' in 3 days!

Bihu is the main festival of Assam, one of the most beautiful states of India, known for its tea gardens, lush green forests and the mighty Brahmaputra river. The Assamese celebrate three types of Bihus throughout the year - Bohaag Bihu, Kongaali Bihu and the Bhogaali Bihu.


The Bohaag Bihu (also known as the Rongaali Bihu) is the beginning of the Assamese calender during the middle of April thereby marks the advent of the Assamese New Year. The term Rongaali comes from the word 'Rong' which can be described as joy according to Assamese. This festival also coincides with the advent of the spring season in the state. Bihu Dance and Bihu Songs are the main features of this Bihu. Bohaag Bihu is celebrated over a period of several days. The first day of the Bihu is known as ‘Goru Bihu’ on which day the cows and bulls are given a ritual bath with ‘halodhi’, ‘maah’ with the accompanying song "Lao Kha, Bengena Kha, Bochore Bochore Badhi Ja". 
The next day is the main Bihu Day on which people greet each other and pay their respect to the elders in the family by presenting with a new ‘Gamosa’ ( a traditional Assamese hand-woven cotton towel with red designs with a white background). Gamosa forms an integral part of the Bohaag Bihu celebrations as the male danseuse wears them on the head as well as on the body. The tradition of presenting a Gamosa is also practised while welcoming any guest during anytime of the year.

Another item which forms an integral part of the Bihu celebrations and is also symbolic of Assamese Culture is the Japi – a traditional Bamboo hat with colorful designs. A more simple bamboo Japi is normally worn by the farmer while cultivating in the field protecting oneself from the sun and rain.

The Rongaali Bihu is in three days. AddiQtd wishes all the Assamese friends a very Happy Bihu!