Music/ Video
[COURTESY:: VCD: "Rangdhali", Music: Krishnamoni Sutiya/ Pran; Direction: Jodumoni Dutta]
In Assam the most important celebrations are the three Bihu festivals. Originally agricultural festivals, these are observed with great enthusiasm irrespective of caste, creed, and religious affinity. The Bohag Bihu, celebrated in the spring (usually mid-April) to mark the commencement of the new year (first day of the Bohag or Baisakh month), is the most important one. Also known as Rangali Bihu (rang means merrymaking and fun), it is accompanied by much dancing and singing. On this day women present a hand-woven gamocha (towel) to each family member. The Magh Bihu, celebrated in mid-January (in the month of Magh), is a harvest festival. Known also as Bhogali Bihu (bhog means enjoyment and feasting), it is a time of community feasts and bonfires. The third Bihu festival, the Kati Bihu (in mid-October), is also called the Kangali Bihu (kangali means poor) because by this time of year the house of a common man is without food grains, as the stock is usually consumed before the next harvest.
