Significance
Bihu is the chief festival of Assam, celebrated three times a year. Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu) marks the Assamese New Year and the onset of spring and harvest.
Mythology & Legend
Bihu has agrarian roots—Bohag Bihu welcomes the new agricultural year. The festival is associated with fertility, cattle, and community. The Bihu dance and songs celebrate love and the seasons.
Rituals & Observances
- At dawn, bathe cattle and offer them respect (Goru Bihu).
- Light the meji (fire) and offer prayers; prepare traditional dishes.
- Wear traditional dress (Mekhela chador, dhoti); perform Bihu dance.
- Exchange Gamusa (scarf) and Pitha (rice cakes); visit relatives.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ अग्नये नमः
oṃ agnaye namaḥ
Salutations to Agni
Traditional Foods
- ●Pitha
- ●Laru
- ●Jolpan
- ●Tekeli pitha
- ●Bora saul
Regional Variations
Assam(বিহু)
Goru Bihu, Bihu dance, meji
Arunachal Pradesh (Assamese influence)(बिहू)
Similar celebration
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Honour cattle
- ✓Perform Bihu dance
- ✓Wear traditional dress
- ✓Share Pitha
Don'ts
- ✗Do not disrespect the meji
- ✗Avoid wasting food
- ✗Do not skip community participation