Magh Bihu: Unveiling its Cultural and Historical Dimensions

07/JANUARY /2024

Magh bihu has its roots in the ancient agrarian society of Assam. Ahom kinge encouraged agriculture and consideres it a crucial part of state's economy, and in appreciation for bountiful harvest they began celebrating Magh Bihu.

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Date: 

14-15 January 

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Significance of Magh Bihu: 

Magh Bihu holds immense significance for the people of Assam as it not only celebrates the end of harvesting seaaon but also serves as a time for gratitute and offering prayers for prosperous year ahead. 

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Celebrations: ----

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Bhelaghar 

On uruka night before Bihu, people construct Bhelaghar and enjoy the feast and spend the night in this makeshift shelter 

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Meji 

People temporarily build thatched huts called Meji as a symbol of worship and as a gathering point for the entire community. On the day of Bihu in early morning the Meji is burnt down along with the Bhelaghar.  

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Food Items 

Magh bihu is a time of enjoyment and people enjoy various traditional dishes like duck,  mutton, fish curries along with rice and rice beer. On the day of bihu, people enjoy their jalpan which comprise of chira, muri, akhoi, pitha guri, sandoh guri, komal chaul, gur, doi and milk.  

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Buffalo Fighting 

Buffalo fighting is an important traditional game during Bihu Festivities. The buffaloes are bathed, adorned and made to lock horns in the fields. Since 2014 it has been banned.  

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Bulbuli Fighting

The traditional Bulbuli fight is held every Bihu at the Haigriva Madhav temple in Assam's Hajo township. Although there is no documented history about when Bulbuli fight started, old timers says it was started by the great Ahom king Swargadeo Pramatta Singha. Since 2014 it has been banned.

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