Bohag Bihu 2025: Every year, April 14 marks Ambedkar Jayanti, Baisakhi, and also the celebration of Bohag Bihu. In Assam and the northeast, Bihu is one of the most important festivals as it marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. Let’s take a closer look at Bohag Bihu, which begins today.
Beginning of the New Year in Assam
Bohag Bihu marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year. It is a festival deeply rooted in agriculture and is dedicated to farmers. The celebration begins with Mesha Sankranti and continues for a week. It also marks the start of the harvest season and is considered an auspicious time for weddings in Assam.
The First Day: Worship of Cows
The first day of Bohag Bihu is known for the traditional worship of cows. Early in the morning, cows are taken to the river and bathed with a mixture of kalai dal (black gram) and raw turmeric, which are soaked overnight. After the bath, cows are fed vegetables like gourd and brinjal. It is believed that this ritual ensures the cows remain healthy throughout the year and brings prosperity to the household.
Offering the Harvest to the Divine
On this occasion, farmers offer the first harvest of the season to Shabrai, the deity of agriculture, and pray for a bountiful harvest in the coming year. The festival also features the preparation of various traditional dishes made with coconut, rice, sesame, and milk. A popular part of the celebration is enjoying curd and chivda (flattened rice).
Bohag Bihu: A Week of Dance, Music & Togetherness
Bohag Bihu is celebrated with vibrant cultural programs throughout the week. Men and women dress in traditional attire and perform the Bihu dance to the rhythmic beats of drums, flutes, pepa (a traditional hornpipe), and taal (cymbals).
Drumming during Bihu is also believed to invoke good rainfall and a prosperous harvest for the year ahead. The festival not only brings communities together but also preserves the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
