
A CORRESPONDENT
DHEKIAJULI: The Bhotpara-Polashpathar Bohagi Utsav marked a historic milestone as it celebrated its Golden Jubilee with unmatched grandeur and cultural brilliance at the Bhotpara Stadium in Dhekiajuli. Spanning five days, the festival became a magnificent tapestry of Assam’s cultural vibrancy and community spirit, drawing thousands of attendees from diverse backgrounds.
The inaugural day was especially momentous, as the celebration was graced by the esteemed presence of Shankar Das, Education Secretary of the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Sonitpur District. His arrival was met with heartfelt enthusiasm from the organizers and the public alike, underscoring his pivotal role in shaping the cultural and educational ethos of the Sonitpur district area.
In his inspiring address, Shankar Das commended the Utsav’s 50 years legacy as a shining example of Assamese resilience, identity, and unity. “The way this festival has sustained its essence through generations is a matter of pride not just for Bhotpara and Polashpathar, but for all of Assam,” he remarked. Stressing the role of youth in upholding tradition, he encouraged AASU members and the new generation to engage actively in cultural preservation. “May Bihu continue to serve as a bridge of harmony among all,” he concluded to a resounding applause.
The following days carried forward the festive momentum with an array of cultural and competitive events. Day three featured a majestic cultural procession led by retired bank officer Dhruvajyoti Chakravarty. A state-level open Bihu competition saw eight stellar teams showcase their talents, with the Biswanath Regional Bihu Team claiming the top position, followed by Rupjyoti Regional Bihua Team and Friendship Club Bihua Team. The competition was inaugurated by Dr Sukdev Adhikari, Principal of Lokanayak Amiya Kumar Das College.
Day four was marked by literary flair and youthful creativity through events like drawing, quiz, impromptu speech, and poetry recitation. The highlight of the evening was a spirited Bihuwati competition and modern dance performance, formally opened by Dhekiajuli Municipal Board Chairperson Sushmita Das.
The final day featured a unique traditional contest called Vekson Competition followed by a grand public meeting presided over by Celebration Committee President Prabin Saikia. Veteran educator Gobinda Kumar Nath delivered a keynote address, tracing Bihu’s historical roots to the Ahom era and urging the community to uphold its sacred traditions. One of the evening’s most anticipated moments was the release of the commemorative souvenir ‘Borhomthuri’ by Dhekiajuli Co-District Commissioner Dyutibha Bora. The closing ceremony was further elevated by the presence of dignitaries such as Dr Sukdev Adhikari, social activist Mahavir Shethia, and journalist Narayan Phayel who spoke on the occasion.
Winners of the various competitions were felicitated in a grand award ceremony, followed by a mesmerizing cultural night. Enthralling Jeng Bihu performances by local women and soul-stirring musical renditions by Manas Pratim and Moorchana captivated the audience. Key supporters, including social workers Cheniram Nath and Balin Nath, were honoured for their tireless contributions. As the curtains fell, the Golden Jubilee of the Bhotpara-Polashpathar Bohagi Utsav stood tall as a tribute to Assamese identity, with Shankar Das’s impactful presence and message leaving a lasting impression on all hearts.
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