Magh Bihu 2024: The Rituals Have Ancient Roots, How The Traditions And Celebrations Have Changed Over Time

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Magha Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, is a significant festival celebrated in the Indian state of Assam. It holds cultural, social, and agricultural significance, marking the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the Magh month in the Assamese calendar. This festival, observed in January, is a time of joy, feasting, and cultural festivities.

Let's know more about Magha Bihu 2024 date, time, significance, and celebrations.

This year, it will be celebrated on Jan 16, marking the pinnacle of the harvest season. According to Drik Panchang, Magh Bihu or Bhogali Bihu falls on January 16 this year, while, the Sankranti shubh muhurat for Magh Bihu is on January 15 at 2:54 AM.

Magh Bihu 2024: Ancient Origin And Rituals

This festival has an ancient origin and was Dimasa Kacharis tribes, who were known as forest people used to celebrate this festival to express their gratitude for a bountiful harvest. Sacrifices were also offered to please god and Mother Nature. Over a period of time, the tradition and rituals evolved and now this day celebrates the abundance harvested from the fields.

This festival spans two days and the initial day is referred to as Uruka or Bihu eve. On the early morning of this day, people take holy bath to cleanse themselves and play traditional Assamese games such as Tekeli Bonga (pot-breaking) and buffalo fighting. Other games include egg fights and cock fights. As a gesture of goodwill, people share rice cakes with their friends, relatives and neighbours. Also, a sweet delicacy is made from coconut.

People, especially young men venture into the fields to construct 'Bhelaghar', which are temporary cottages, preferably situated near the river, because later it is immersed in the water. To construct this, the hay is brought from the already harvested fields. Additionally, a Meiji, which is a bonfire and is lit amid the backdrop of people, especially farmers singing Bihu songs. These traditional songs are accompanied by rhythmic dhol beats.

People come together to share traditional Assamese dishes, emphasizing the importance of community and togetherness. This communal aspect of the festival fosters social bonds and strengthens the sense of belonging among the people.

Magh Bihu 2024: Significance And Celebrations

Magha Bihu is primarily an agrarian festival, celebrating the culmination of the harvest season. It is a time for farmers to reap the rewards of their hard work and offer gratitude for a bountiful harvest. The festival emphasizes the connection between the agricultural cycle and the cultural life of the people in Assam. All the traditions are done to invite prosperity, and happiness.

It is a time for cultural festivities, including traditional dances, songs, and various competitions. People wear traditional Assamese attire and participate in activities that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Bihu dance, characterized by energetic movements and the beating of traditional instruments, is an integral part of the celebrations.