Sixteenth Annual Chandubi festival to begin on January 1 with five-day cultural extravaganza

The historic Chandubi Lake in Assam’s Kamrup district is set to come alive with colours, culture, and celebration as the Sixteenth Annual Chandubi Festival begins on January 1, 2026, with a five-day programme showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Organised jointly by the Borduar–Bholagaon Regional Rabha Students’ Union and the Chandubi Festival Celebration Committee under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) area of South Kamrup, the festival has emerged as a major platform for cultural expression, ecological awareness, and rural tourism.

The festival will feature vibrant folk dances, traditional cuisine, indigenous sports, handicraft exhibitions, and cultural performances representing the diverse ethnic communities of the region.

Since its inception in 2010, the Chandubi Festival has been celebrated under the theme “Save Chandubi, Save Heritage”, highlighting the need to conserve the biodiversity and ecological balance of Chandubi Lake. Despite not yet receiving formal government recognition, the festival has grown in stature over the years, attracting visitors from across India and abroad.

Festival Committee Vice-President Pranjal Rabha said preparations are in full swing. “Artisans are working tirelessly to complete key infrastructure, including the guest house, main entrance gate, cultural stage, and exhibition stalls by December 31,” he said.

Rabha added that the festival aims to preserve the region’s cultural legacy, revive fading folk traditions, promote rural tourism, and ensure environmental conservation of the Chandubi Lake ecosystem.

One of the major highlights of the festival will be a special tribute to late popular singer Zubeen Garg on the second day of the event. A permanent memorial Tongighar (traditional hut) will be established at Chandubi in his memory, recalling the time he spent at the location during a film shoot. A tribute procession is also planned as part of the programme.

With its scenic beauty and deep-rooted cultural significance, Chandubi continues to draw tourists and culture enthusiasts from across the country and overseas. Organisers said the upcoming edition promises to be a grand celebration of heritage, nature, and community spirit.