The principal festivals and fairs celebrated in Assam are Bihu, Baishagu, Ali-Ai-Ligang, Baikho, Rongker, Rajini Gabra, Harni Gabra, Bohaggiyo Bishu, Ambubachi Mela and Jonbill Mela and so on. All the celebrations Assamese festivals usually take place in a 'Namghar' or open space. The Hindus in Assam observes the Durga puja, the Janmashtami, the Saraswati, Lakshmi puja, the Kali puja and the Daul Utsava called Fakuwa. The Muslims observe the Id and the Muharram. In some parts, the tribal worship the snake goddess Manasa.
The Bihu is the national festival of Assamese. Bihu comes from the Sanskrit word Visuvan i.e. equinox. Bihus are celebrated on Sankranti i.e. the last day of the month. The Assamese observe three Bihus. The festival of Bihu is connected with the various stages of cultivation of paddy crop. During spring the Bihu is called Bahag Bihu, popularly called as Rangali Bihu. This is the most important Bihu and is celebrated with much pomp and grandeur. It continues for seven days. The Kati Bihu is observed on the last day of Ashwin and is called beggars Bihu as there is nothing much to eat.
Another important festival in Assam is the Devaddhvani celebrated for three days from the last day of Sravana (monsoon) to the second day of Bhadra (autumn). The festival is dedicated to the snake God Manasa. This festival is held at Kamakhya Temple. The Ambubachi Mela is organized at Kamkhya Temple in the month of June. The festival marks the onset of the new crop season. It attracts devotees from all over India. The three day long Bramhaputra Beach Festival on the sandy beaches of Bramhaputra attracts indigenous craftsmen and handloom weavers. It also promotes various sports like kayaking, rowing, surfing, river rafting and para-droping.
Other festivals in Assam are
Jonbeel Mela
Rongali Utsav
Deul of Berpeta
Doul Yatra
Pocham and Pochi celebrated in honor of Buddha.
For more details on Assam, visit www.coutryofindia.com.
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