Bihu is a widely celebrated festival in Assam, India. It is celebrated at three different times in a year :
- Rongali or Bohag Bihu during April
- Kongali or Kati Bihu during the month of October
- Bhogali or Magh Bihu in January
The Rongali Bihu is the most important among the three that celebrates the Assamese new year and welcomes the spring festival.
The Rongali Bihu falls on 15th April 2019 and it is celebrated for seven days during the month of Bohag (Baishakh Month).
Bihu is associated with agriculture, and rice in particular. People celebrate the Rongali Bihu with delicious dishes, music, and dance. Some hang brass, copper or silver pots on the poles in front of their houses, while children wear flower garlands then greet the new year to their family and friends.
The festival is celebrated with traditional Bihu dance that is performed by men and women. Bihu is celebrated for seven days, called as Xaat Bihu. The seven days are known as Chot Bihu, Goru Bihu, Manuh Bihu, Kutum Bihu, Senehi Bihu, Mela Bihu, and Chera Bihu.
Each day holds its own importance. On the first day of Rongali Bihu, cattle and farm animals are given a bath with a paste of turmeric and black gram. The old ropes tied to their legs are thrown away and new ropes are tied. This festival is to thank the animals for helping on the farm. Even prayers are offered to God for a productive year ahead.
People sing traditional Bihu songs and perform a traditional dance.