Rongali Utsav in Assam

Rongali Utsav is a harbinger of spring in the state of Assam. This northeastern state is well known for its Bihu festival and the Rongali Bihu is the most prominent one. The State Department of Tourism organizes this festival in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Srimanta Shankaradev Kalakshetra. The fair showcases the rich cultural traditions of Assam. The festival also hosts the Ahar Mela, which is a fair of delicacies where the cuisine of Assam is exhibited. There are also organized cultural programmes in the Utsav with a combination of modern and traditional songs and dances. Dhol or drum and Pepa or flutes are the traditional instruments which herald the beginning of the event. Rongali Bihu celebration is held in the middle of April. A number of tribes including the Missing, Deuris, Rahaba, Karbi etc take part in the festival and make it a colorful and jubilant event. Basically the tribes and sub tribes of Assam come together in the Rongali Utsav, to welcome spring in high spirits.

History of the Festival

Every year the festival is celebrated in Srimanta Shankaradev Kalakshetra in Guwahati, and a number of tribes and sub tribes take part in the celebration. In 2010, the festival was officially inaugurated on 3rd of April by the Minister of Tourism at the Veterinary Ground, Khanapara.

Duration of the Festival

The festival continues for a few days, and is followed by the 7 day Bihu festival.

Highlights/ Important Rituals of the Festival

• The folk songs and dances of different tribes and sub tribes make a pleasurable viewing in the festival and showcase the rich culture and traditions of Assam. Each of the tribe has a unique style of Bihu dance, which is highlighted during this festival.
• The festival of food is well known for providing mouthwatering dishes from Assam as well as from other parts of the country.
• Famous regional artistes also take part in the cultural programmes.