Apr 14, 2004, 12.00am IST
Assam is the exotic land of hills, rivers and valleys. From Mansarovar the Brahmaputra flows through Assam and together with its tributaries, it is described as Assam's nervous system.
Nearly 80 per cent of the people of Assam are dependent on agriculture and spontaneous celebration of festivities is associated with the beginning and end of the harvest season. Bihu from the Sanskrit Vishu, is the harvest festival of Assam and is celebrated thrice in a year. The festival at the beginning of the spring season is Bohag Bihu, associated with the Vernal equinox in Chaitra Sankranti. The Kati Bihu is associated with the Autumnal equinox in Ashwina Sankranti.
People often call the Kati Bihu as Kangali Bihu as there is nothing much to eat during that period. People welcome budding paddy crops. The Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu associated with winter solstice is celebrated with food and drinks after harvest, in Pausa Sankranti.
The advent of spring is synchronised with the new year and the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu is celebrated. The Brahmaputra valley is green and cuckoos sing in the woods. Fragrant flowers and orchids bloom. People sing and dance to the rhythm of the Dhol, Pepa and Gagana, evoking fertility, romance, devotion, cattle and human welfare in a month-long celebration. Domestic animals and family members bathe with raw turmeric paste, horse bean and mustard oil. New clothes are worn. Delicious dishes are prepared and offered to cattle, man and God. Teel Pitha is a cake prepared from dry Bora rice powder and sesame (til).
Bihu songs express the will and desire of the people in an unbroken and integrated tradition. Romance is in the air as the young gather in open fields or under the pipal tree, exchanging feelings of youthful joy. "God created the world first/ Then created the creatures,/ That same God made love/ Why should not we?" From the weaving stand, the womenfolk encourage and inspire their male counterparts to fight enemies. "I shall weave ‘Gamocha' darling/ You will take part in Bihu,/ Shall I weave ‘Riha' of silk darling/ As you will drive out the enemy?" The Hussori songs are linked with the blessings for prosperity and peace throughout the year.
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