BAKSA: With the colorful Rongali Bihu festival looming on the horizon, enthusiasm and happiness are in the air throughout the state, with fairs being organized in different places. One of them, the Bohagi Mela, began on Thursday in Musalpur, Baksa district, under the aegis of the Assam Rural Livelihood Mission. The inaugural ceremony saw MLA Montu Boro unveiling the main gate.
The Bohagi Mela reflects a diverse set of traditional Assamese garments such as bihuwan, aronai, and mekhela chadar made by local weavers. Women of self-help groups in the district have put up stalls selling various types of garments made locally. The fair not only features textiles but also a variety of products made with bamboo and tamol dhokua, which showcase the local craftsmanship.
Local craftsmen credited the Assam government for the efforts to make handwoven gamosas popular, referring to the enhanced demand for handwoven products. The artisans are particularly pleased with the government's commitment to purchasing bihuwans at fair prices, which has encouraged local weavers. They have called on the government to prioritize local artisans by promoting their products over power loom alternatives.
The event was attended by several government officials, including MLA Montu Boro and District Commissioner Gautam Das. On his visit, MLA Boro encouraged the local weavers to improve their skills through exposure to weaving experts and enriching further the rich cultural heritage of the region. Bohagi Mela is a reflection of Assam's rich heritage as the state gears up for the festival season.
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