PASIGHAT, April 14: Rongali Bihu, popularly known as Bohaag Bihu is an integral part of Assamese tradition. It marks the New Year celebration, welcomes the Spring and the beginning of a harvest season. It was celebrated at the state’s oldest Namghar, Pasighat, located at the main market with great fun, enthusiasm, pomp and show and the Assamese people, irrespective of class, creed, religion and social status come together to celebrate the occasion with great joy.
The Education Minister Bosiram Siram graced the auspicious occasion as Chief Guest, while SC Debnath ADC and President (BCCI) Tobuk Dai were present as Guest of Honour and Special Invitee respectively. In his inaugural speech, the Chief Guest Siram remarked that India’s cultural diversity was the strength which sets it apart from any other country in this world. Bihu is always a great celebration for the Assamese people and plays a very crucial role in defining the culture of Assam, he added while greeting the community on the auspicious occasion.
He said farming is still the predominant vocation of people of north-east part of India and further prayed for bumper harvest and prosperity. The minister felt the occasion was a memorable get-together which enabled all to relive the spirit of Bihu living far away from their homes and renew the bond of the community in Pasighat. He lauded the efforts of the Sri Sri Sankar Guru Kristhi Kendra, Pasighat for organizing the celebration in a befitting manner and advised to protect and preserved the age-old tradition and culture. The Assamese people are popular worldwide for their special Bihu songs and dances, commented the Chief Guest. At the end, he donated fifty thousands for infrastructural developments of the Namghar. The ADC Debnath outlined the importance of the celebration and conveyed his thanks to the people for their active participation and acknowledged his support for making the function successful. He wished for peace and unity and stated there is a feeling of joy around as the farmers prepare the field for the cultivation of paddy. Among others, the President and Secretary of SGKK, Pasighat Basu Prashad Baruah and Arun Saikia and eminent writer and poet Girin Tamuli also spoke on the occasion.