In a joyous celebration of Assamese culture, Gagana, a premier socio-cultural organization representing Assamese people in Mumbai and Thane, marked the auspicious occasion of Bhogali Bihu with traditional fervour and enthusiasm. The event took place at the St Jones Marthoma Syrian Church Auditorium in Mira Road, Mumbai, on January 13.
Bhogali Bihu was celebrated with customary rituals, traditionally signifying the end of the harvesting season in January or ‘Magh’ in Assamese. A bonfire, known as ‘Meji’, and a hut constructed from bamboo and straw rice, referred to as ‘Bhelaghar’, were lit ceremoniously as a conclusion and prayer to the God of fire.
The festivities commenced with traditional sports engaging participants of all age groups. Young children exhibited immense enthusiasm for Assamese music, dance, and recitation. The gathering lauded the lively participation of the children in traditional games and sports.
Children showcased replicas of ‘Bhelaghar’, ‘Meji’, and various cultural artefacts, creating an informative exhibition to familiarize young generations and non-Assamese guests with Assamese culture.
A highlight of the event was the Assamese women’s competition, presenting a variety of Assamese delicacies. The programme also included an interactive session with guests and a cultural evening featuring music and dance to the melodious tunes of traditional instruments like ‘dhol’, ‘pepa’, and ‘gagana’.
Renowned Assamese artistes from Bollywood, Nilotpal Bora and Tushar Arjun, added glamour to the celebration. Attendees joined in singing and dancing to traditional songs, creating a jubilant atmosphere.
The festivities culminated in a lavish dinner, known as ‘Urukar Bhoj’, featuring authentic Assamese dishes. The event underscored Gagana-Mumbai’s ongoing efforts to unite Assamese people in Mumbai and Thane, promote cultural identity, and foster cultural exchanges with the greater Marathi community, echoing the vision of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’.
In a press release, Gagana-Mumbai expressed its commitment to fostering unity among Assamese residents and cultivating cultural understanding across communities.
