Sangeeta Das
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Assam
Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Union Ministers Sarbananda Sonowal and
Amit Shah and BJP chief JP Nadda have extended warm greetings to the people of
Assam, asserting Bhogali Bihu as more than a festival, but a profound
socio-cultural custom and identity for the Assamese community.
Extending his cordial greetings, PM Modi
wished for a time “filled with hope and happiness” for the people of Assam and
wished may they get hope and joy from “the beauty of nature’s harvest”.
Dr Himanta expressed his heartfelt
prayers, hoping the flames of Meji (bonfire) will shield everyone from
adversities and usher in a period of peace, prosperity, and happiness. The Meji’s
fire, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness, carries a message of
victory.
SEE the X Post Here:
https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1746734782598279285?s=20
https://x.com/himantabiswa/status/1746717577177620689?s=20
https://x.com/AmitShah/status/1746740512152080647?s=20
https://x.com/JPNadda/status/1746727809110962520?s=20
Wishing all a joyous Magh Bihu, Dr
Himanta envisioned the Meji’s flames eradicating societal evils and spreading
the pure essence of happiness, peace, and immense prosperity through positive
energy. He wished further may the abundant golden crops in fields and barns
illuminate the nation’s life and strengthen the bonds of harmony among all.
JP Nadda extended warm greetings for
Magh Bihu, praying that the festival becomes a catalyst for health, happiness,
and success in everyone’s lives.
Meanwhile, Amit Shah conveyed heartfelt
wishes to the sisters and brothers in Assam, hoping this harvest festival
showers blessing of happiness and prosperity upon everyone.
In a media interaction, Sarbananda
Sonowal underscored the significance of festivals in shaping an individual’s
identity, handed down through many generations.
Bhogali Bihu, also known as Magh Bihu,
represents the rich socio-cultural ethos of Assam, culminating the harvest season
with vibrant celebrations in mid-January.
Sonowal actively participated in the
festivities, igniting the traditional Meji bonfire in Guwahati on January 15,
symbolizing gratitude for the abundant harvest.
The festival is deeply rooted in agriculture,
with the burning of Meji followed by communal feasts showcasing Assam’s
gastronomic heritage. Beyond harvest celebrations, Bhogali Bihu fosters social
bonding, with communities coming together to reinforce their cultural identity
and shared values.
Preceding the main event, Uruka, marked
by communal revelry in makeshift huts called Bhelaghar, allows people to engage
in traditional activities, share Bihu songs, and partake in games. Bhogali Bihu
is part of the trio of Bihu festivals unique to Assam, each corresponding to
different agricultural phases.
The festival extends beyond its
agricultural roots, serving as a vibrant expression of Assamese culture through
the energetic Bihu dance and songs resonating with nature and social themes.
Despite evolving times, Bhogali Bihu remains a unifying force, transcending
religious and social divides.
