Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu or Rangali Bihu, is one of the most important cultural festivals of Assam and is also celebrated with joy in several parts of Northeast India. It marks the Assamese New Year, welcomes the arrival of spring, and signals the beginning of the agricultural season.
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When is Bohag Bihu Celebrated
In 2025, Bohag Bihu will begin on April 14 and be observed over a period of seven days. It coincides with Mesha Sankranti, which is when the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Aries — making it one of the few Indian festivals based on the solar calendar, unlike others that follow the lunar cycle.
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Historical Background of Bohag Bihu
Bohag Bihu has ancient origins and is believed to have been celebrated for centuries by the local tribes and farming communities of Assam. The word “Rongali” is derived from “Rong”, meaning joy, festivity, and color, which perfectly captures the essence of this festival.
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The Agricultural Significance of Bohag Bihu
Assam’s economy and lifestyle are heavily dependent on agriculture, and Bohag Bihu is intimately tied to this rhythm of life. It marks the beginning of the seeding season, when farmers prepare their fields, sow new crops, and perform rituals to seek blessings for rain, growth, and a good harvest.
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How is Bohag Bihu Celebrated?
Bohag Bihu is celebrated over a week, and each day has its own name and set of customs: Goru Bihu , Manuh Bihu , Kutum Bihu, Senehi Bihu, Mela Bihu , Raati Bihu , Sera Bihu
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Music, Dance, and Attire
Bihu is incomplete without the famous Bihu dance and folk music. Performed mostly by young men and women in open spaces, the dance is vibrant and expressive, often centered around themes of love and joy.
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Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Bohag Bihu is more than just a seasonal celebration—it is a cornerstone of Assamese cultural identity. It symbolizes.
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New beginnings and spiritual renewal , Gratitude to nature and the divine , Preservation of community traditions and local art forms , Strengthening of family and social tie
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In a fast-changing world, festivals like Bohag Bihu help maintain a deep-rooted connection with heritage, nature, and each other.
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