Convergence of ethnic culture: Phat Bihu celebration kicks off

A CORRESPONDENT

LAKHIMPUR: Disseminating the message of harmony and solidarity, Phat Bihu, the unique convergence of the ethnic cultures in Dhakuakhana subdivision of Lakhimpur district, kick-started on Friday amid due enthusiasm and festive environment.

The festival, which is the symbol of cultural identity and self-esteem of the people of Dhakuakhana, has been celebrated at the permanent Phat Bihu venue (Phat Bihu Bakori) at Mohghuli Chapori on the bank of the River Charikoria. This year too, the festival has been organized with a three-day long programme until May 15.

Notably, the folk cultures of various ethnic communities of the State are showcased in the programmes of Phat Bihu, the historic festival which has been celebrated since the regime of the Ahom dynasty in Assam. On Friday, the festival began with the unfurling of Phat Bihu flag by the Phat Bihu Samiti president Basanta Saikia. Celebration Committee president Pranjal Gohain administered the smriti tarpan event by paying floral tribute to the martyrs. Then the Bihu cultural groups, which came to take part in the festival, were given a warm welcome and escorted to the festival venue from the main gate.

Prominent citizen Jagadish Gogoi inaugurated the open stage. It was followed by a competition event on Taka Bihu which was inaugurated by vocal artiste Kalpana Senapoti Baruah. Then another competition event on Husari performed by teenagers was held. It was inaugurated by Indian Airforce engineer Dulal Das.

On the other hand, plantation of the orchid Kapauphool and saplings of other invaluable plants, competitions on gamosa and husori to be performed by aged people, ethnic tribes and communities, release of Phat Bihu souvenir Bihuwan will be held on Saturday as part of the second day's programme.

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