Celebrating the Vibrant Spirit: Top 10 Festivals of Assam
Bihu Festival
Timing: Rongali Bihu (mid-April), Kongali Bihu (mid-October), Bhogali Bihu (mid-January)
Bihu is the most popular festival in Assam, celebrated with great zeal and excitement. Rongali Bihu marks the onset of the Assamese New Year, where people engage in traditional folk dance called Bihu dance. During Bhogali Bihu (Festivals of Assam), communities come together to build temporary huts called 'Bhelaghar' and organize feasts, known as 'Bhogali Bihu Uruka.
Read More: The Magnificent 7 Wonders of India - A Journey into Timeless Splendor
Ambubachi Mela
Timing: Late June
Held at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Ambubachi Mela (Festivals of Assam) is a significant religious festival dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. It is believed that the goddess undergoes her annual menstruation cycle during this time, and the temple remains closed for three days. On the fourth day, the temple reopens, and devotees receive 'prasad' (blessed offerings) from the goddess.
Majuli Festival
Timing: November/December
Majuli (Festivals of Assam), the world's largest river island, hosts this vibrant festival, celebrating the island's culture and heritage. The festival features traditional dance performances, music, art exhibitions, and boat races. Tourists can also witness the unique 'Raas Leela,' showcasing the life of Lord Krishna through dance-dramas.
Read More: Srivari Padalu Temple in Tirumala Tirupati- Things to Know Before Your Visit
Durga Puja
Timing: September/October
Durga Puja is celebrated with immense fervor all over Assam, especially in the capital city, Guwahati. Elaborate pandals (decorative temporary structures) are set up, housing intricately crafted idols of Goddess Durga. Cultural events, music, and dance performances add to the festive spirit.
Dehing Patkai Festival
Timing: January/February
Celebrated in the picturesque Dehing Patkai Rainforest (Festivals of Assam), this festival aims to promote ecotourism and raise awareness about preserving nature. The festivities include jungle safaris, bird-watching tours, traditional games, and cultural programs.
Read More: Tirupati Temple: New Entering System to be Launched By TTD
Jonbeel Mela
Timing: January
Jonbeel Mela is a unique festival celebrated at Jonbeel, where various tribes come together to exchange goods and barter. It fosters harmony among diverse ethnic communities and showcases traditional sports, music, and crafts.
Ali-Aye-Ligang
Timing: February/March
Celebration: This agricultural festival is celebrated by the Mishing community to seek blessings for a good harvest. The festivities include traditional dances, singing, and offerings to the gods for prosperity.
Baishagu Festival
Timing: April
Celebration: The Baishagu Festival is celebrated with immense joy by the Bodo community. It is marked by traditional dance, music, and the wearing of colorful attire. The festival signifies bidding farewell to the old year and welcoming the new.
Me-Dum-Me-Phi
Timing: January
This unique festival is observed by the Ahom community to pay homage to the departed souls of the family. People offer prayers and seek blessings for the well-being of their ancestors.
Rongker Festival
Timing: December/January
Celebrated by the Karbi community, Rongker Festival (Festivals of Assam) is a thanksgiving ceremony to the gods for a bountiful harvest. The festival involves traditional rituals, dance, music, and offerings.
Assam's festivals offer a glimpse into its rich cultural tapestry and the warmth of its people. These joyous celebrations reflect the essence of Assam's vibrant spirit, fostering unity and harmony among diverse communities. Plan your visit to this beautiful state to experience the enchanting allure of its festivals and create memories that last a lifetime.
Read More: MahaShivratri: Explore in which countries where Lord Shiv is been Worshipped.