Assam Public Holidays List 2023-2024. Assam, located in northeast India, is a state known for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich biodiversity. The region is blessed with lush green landscapes, rolling hills, mighty rivers, and a unique blend of wildlife and flora. The mighty Brahmaputra River, which flows through the state, is not only a lifeline for the people but also adds to the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Assam is famous for its tea plantations, and the state’s tea industry is renowned worldwide. Assam tea, known for its strong and robust flavor, is a favorite among tea enthusiasts. The Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another prominent attraction in Assam. It is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros and boasts a remarkable variety of wildlife.
The state is culturally diverse, with a mix of indigenous tribes, such as the Bodo, Mishing, Karbi, and Ahom, among others. Each tribe has its own distinct traditions, languages, and festivals, contributing to the vibrant cultural tapestry of Assam. Bihu, the most popular festival in the state, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes traditional music, dance performances, and feasts.
Assam’s economy is primarily agrarian, with agriculture playing a significant role. The fertile plains of the Brahmaputra Valley support the cultivation of crops like rice, jute, pulses, and fruits. The state also has abundant mineral resources, including petroleum, coal, limestone, and natural gas, which contribute to its industrial growth. The handloom and handicraft industries of Assam are also well-known, with products like silk textiles, bamboo crafts, pottery, and traditional jewelry being highly regarded.
what are the principal holidays celebrated in the state of Assam?
Bihu: Bihu is the most important and widely celebrated festival in Assam. It is a series of three festivals – Rongali Bihu, Bhogali Bihu, and Kongali Bihu – which mark the arrival of the Assamese New Year and the agricultural cycle. Bihu is characterized by vibrant dances, music, feasts, and cultural performances.
Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a significant festival celebrated by the Bengali community in Assam. It is a nine-day long festival dedicated to Goddess Durga and symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Elaborate decorations, intricate idols, cultural programs, and grand processions are the highlights of Durga Puja celebrations.
Ambubachi Mela: The Ambubachi Mela is a unique festival celebrated at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam. It is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and signifies the annual menstruation of the Goddess. Devotees from all over the country gather at the temple to seek blessings and participate in rituals and religious ceremonies.
Bohag Bihu: Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is a part of the Bihu festival series and is celebrated in mid-April. It marks the onset of the agricultural season and is a time of joy, merriment, and cultural activities. People indulge in traditional Assamese dances, music, and sports during this festival.
Jonbeel Mela: Jonbeel Mela is a unique cultural festival celebrated in Assam. It takes place at Jonbeel, a historic meeting ground, and is a platform for various tribes and communities to come together and showcase their rich cultural heritage. The festival includes cultural performances, traditional sports, and a vibrant market.
Baishagu: Baishagu is a harvest festival celebrated by the Bodo community in Assam. It is a time of joy and thanksgiving for the successful harvest. The festival is marked by traditional dances, music, and colorful attire, reflecting the cultural identity of the Bodo people.
Ali-Aye-Ligang: Ali-Aye-Ligang is an agricultural festival celebrated by the Mishing tribe in Assam. It is dedicated to the gods of fertility and is a time of prayer and offerings for a good harvest. The festival includes traditional dances, songs, and rituals performed by the Mishing community.
Kati Bihu: Kati Bihu, also known as Kangali Bihu, is a part of the Bihu festival series and is celebrated in October. It is an agricultural festival that focuses on the conservation and protection of crops during the monsoon season. The festival is marked by lighting earthen lamps, performing rituals, and offering prayers for a bountiful harvest.
Holi: Holi, the festival of colors, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Assam. People come together to play with colors, exchange sweets, and celebrate the arrival of spring. It is a joyous occasion that promotes unity and harmony among people.
Magh Bihu: Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, is a harvest festival celebrated in January. It is a time of feasting and bonfires to mark the end of the harvesting season. Traditional Assamese delicacies are prepared, and community feasts are organized during this festival.
Q: What is the traditional dance form of Assam? A: The traditional dance form of Assam is known as Bihu. It is performed during the Bihu festivals and is characterized by energetic movements and vibrant music.
Q: What is the famous cuisine of Assam? A: The famous cuisine of Assam is known for its unique flavors and use of local ingredients. Some popular dishes include Masor Tenga (sour fish curry), Khar (a dish made from alkali), and Pitha (rice cakes).
Q: What is the main language spoken in Assam? A: The main language spoken in Assam is Assamese. It is the official language of the state and is widely spoken by the majority of the population.
Q: What is the traditional attire of Assam? A: The traditional attire of Assam for women is called Mekhela Sador, which consists of a two-piece garment draped around the body. Men usually wear a dhoti and a kurta or shirt.
Q: What is the significance of the Kamakhya Temple in Assam? A: The Kamakhya Temple, located in Guwahati, is one of the most important and revered shrines in Assam. It is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya and is considered a major pilgrimage site for devotees.
Q: What are the major industries in Assam? A: Assam’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, tea production, and oil and gas industries. Tea plantations and refineries are significant contributors to the state’s economy.
Q: What is the famous wildlife sanctuary in Assam? A: Kaziranga National Park is a famous wildlife sanctuary in Assam known for its population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists from all over the world.
Q: What is the traditional music of Assam? A: The traditional music of Assam is known as Borgeet. It is devotional music that combines elements of classical and folk music and is often sung during religious and cultural events.
