Assam's Sivasagar hosts spectacular Rongali Bihu celebrations at Rang Ghar

The historic premises of Rang Ghar in Sivasagar came alive with vibrant festivities as people gathered to celebrate the first day of Bohag Bihu with great enthusiasm and cultural fervour. The celebrations marked the 18th Greater Rongpur Rongali Bihu, organised by the Brihattar Rongpur Rongali Bihu Udjapan Samiti with a colourful lineup of events.

 

Rang Ghar, one of Assam’s most iconic Ahom-era monuments, was constructed in 1746 by Swargadeo Pramatta Singha. During the reign of Swargadeo Rudra Singha, the celebration of Bihu was accorded royal patronage and brought to the Rang Ghar premises, a tradition that continues to this day.

 

The programme began in the morning with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and hoisting of the flag by ATTSA Central President Basanta Gogoi. The event was formally inaugurated by the principal of Gargaon College, Dr. Sabyasachi Mahanta, who attended as the chief guest.

 

Adding to the festive spirit, young men and women performed traditional Bihu dances to the tunes of old and new Bihu songs, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere across the Rang Ghar complex. Several renowned Huchori groups, including those from Charaideo, Nimaijan, and Bakata, enthralled the audience with their performances.

 

A special attraction of the celebration was the presence of Abhijit Gogoi as the symbolic “Swargadeo.” He was ceremonially escorted from the Talatal Ghar premises to Rang Ghar in a grand cultural procession, accompanied by traditional drums and cymbals and carried atop an elephant, recreating the regal splendour of the Ahom era.

 

On the occasion, a commemorative souvenir titled “Ranggharor Ronshinga”, edited by Jayjyoti Gogoi and Pradip Gogoi, was also formally released, adding literary significance to the celebrations.

 

The event beautifully showcased Assam’s rich cultural heritage and reaffirmed the enduring legacy of Rongali Bihu at the historic Rang Ghar.