Forgotten Culture?

Kati Bihu was once an important festival of the farming section of the Assamese natives along with the other two Bihus. Bohag or Rongali Bihu and Magh or Bhogali Bihu widely create a joyful atmosphere with lots of enjoyment on our food plates. In contrast, Kati or Kongali Bihu was marked by a scarcity of food and other needs. The rituals associated with this Bihu bear scientific significance, but nowadays this tradition seems to be slowly forgotten by most people under the influence of so-called modernism. But a truly modern mind never lets go of rich cultural heritage and good practices. The folk culture and songs sung on Kati Bihu, the offerings made to the sacred Tulsi sapling which has benefits for human health, the lighting of earthen lamps inside paddy fields — all have scientific basis. Amidst the confusion of modern life, the new generation unacquainted with such rich original practices can imbibe anew the peaceful, healthy and brotherly atmosphere of yore.

Damodar Sarmah,

Amolapatty, Sivasagar.