Bhogali Bihu: Significance, Rituals and Celebrations!
There is a saying that the beauty of a country lies in its diversity of cultures. And when it comes to India, diversity is our most cherished trait. We have so many communities with their cherished festivals, enriching our culture. One of them is Bihu – the pride of Assam. Bhogali Bihu, also known as Magh Bihu, is the harvest festival of Assam. It takes place in the Assamese month of Magh, usually in January, also known as Magh Bihu. The word ‘Bhogali’ in Assamese means ‘feasting.’ The festival lasts two days and is dedicated to Lord Agni, the Hindu fire god. The first day, called Uruka, falls on January 14, 2024. The dates of Bihu in 2024 are as follows:
Bhogali Bihu Dates
- Magh Bihu 2024 Date: Tuesday, January 16, 2024
- Sankranti Moment on Magha Bihu – 02:54 AM, January 15
- Bohag Bihu 2024 Date: Sunday, April 14, 2024 – Saturday, April 20, 2024
Let us tell you about the significance of Bhogali Bihu.
Significance of Bhogali Bihu
In the North-Eastern part of India Assam, people celebrate the vibrant Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu and Maghar Domahi. This festival marks the culmination of the rice harvesting season and holds great importance in the agricultural communities of Assam. There are three Bihu festivals in Assam, each representing a stage in the crop cycle: the start of the agricultural season, the completion of transplantation, and the end of the harvesting season. Alongside Magh Bihu, Bohag Bihu and Kati Bihu are also celebrated in Assam with tremendous joy. The term ‘Bihu’ itself means enjoyment.
Bhogali Bihu Celebrations
On Magh Bihu in Assam, a unique tradition involves building hut-like structures, called Meji, using thatch, leaves, and bamboo. These Mejis are constructed in harvested rice fields for the community to enjoy a feast.
People spend the night in these Mejis or Bhela Ghars and burn them the next morning. During the bonfire, coconuts are offered to Gods, and vegetables are roasted for a festive meal.
Besides delicious food, traditional Assamese games like Tekeli, Bhonga, bird-fights, and buffalo fights contribute to the festive spirit. Bonfires, traditional dances, and folk songs create an atmosphere filled with joy and merriment.
The night before the festival is called ‘Uruka,’ which falls on the 28th day of Pooh in Assam. On this night, people come together to cook and enjoy a bonfire. The month of Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu is filled with fun and festivities. Since Assam’s granaries are full during this time, there is much feasting.
Assamese men built Bhelaghar, a makeshift cottage near the river, and also made Meji. On the night of Uruka, people are busy cooking festive food and organising community feasts. They share sweets, greet each other, and celebrate with Bihu songs and music. Assamese people use Dhols and play various games. Boys have fun with activities like firewood robbery and vegetable stealing during the night.
Just like Makar Sankranti, during Uttarayan, Bhogali Bihu is a festival of fun and entertainment, coming together to celebrate the bountiful harvest and express gratitude towards the Sun God, Earth and Agni Dev.
