Bihu marks the passage of seasons while also reminds us of the rhythm of the traditional Assamese folk dance, which is also named after the festival.
Bihu dance is very popular throughout Assam, especially in the eastern parts of the state like Lakhimpur, Sibsagar, Naogaon and Tejpur. The festival is observed in three phases.
While Rongali or Bohag Bihu is celebrated for three days beginning from the last day of Chaitra, Kangali or Kati Bihu is celebrated during the month of Ashwin and Karthik, and Bhogali Bihu, which is associated with harvesting, completes the cycle of Bihu.
Bihu is generally performed in an open field. Young boys and girls draped in colourful outfits take part in this community dance. While girls wear costumes with red borders, boys wear dhotis and short kurtas. Simple text and scintillating melody make the songs of Bihu both enchanting and easy. Traditional instruments are played with this folk music and dance.
The festival of Bihu is vibrant in colour as it celebrates the season of spring. It transcends the barriers of caste and creed and mesmerises one and all.
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