Kaziranga forest guards observe Kati Bihu amid duty, remember Zubeen Garg

Assam marks Kati Bihu today, October 18, the first since the passing of the state’s cherished artist, Zubeen Garg, whose contributions to Assamese culture and music have left an enduring legacy.

Despite their demanding duties, forest personnel of Kaziranga National Park, who are continuously engaged in safeguarding the park’s rich biodiversity, are quietly observing the festival within their forest camps. 

As part of the traditional celebrations, the guards are lighting lamps beneath the Tulsi plant, maintaining the cultural essence of Kati Bihu while performing their responsibilities.

Meanwhile, the entire state of Assam is observing Kati Bihu with rituals like lighting earthen lamps under the Tulsi plant and in paddy fields to pray for a good harvest and protect crops from pests. 

Known as Kangali Bihu (Festival of the poor), it is time of austerity that marks the transition to the main harvest season and symbolizes hope for prosperity despite lean resources.