Guwahati, January 14, 2026: While the rest of India celebrates Makar Sankranti and Pongal, the heart of Northeast India, Assam, is immersed in the joyous celebrations of Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu. Today marks the main day of the festival, characterized by the ritualistic burning of 'Mejis' and community feasts that celebrate the end of the harvest season.
The celebrations began last night, known as Uruka. Across the state, villagers gathered in open fields to build temporary thatch-and-bamboo huts called Bhelaghars.
Community Feasting: People spent the night inside these Bhelaghars, cooking traditional Assamese dishes like Masor Tenga (sour fish curry), meat, and local delicacies over a bonfire.
Symbol of Togetherness: Uruka is more than just a feast; it is a symbol of community bonding where neighbors and relatives eat together from a common kitchen.
Early this morning, at the crack of dawn, the traditional Mejis (tall structures made of bamboo, thatch, and firewood) were lit amidst the chanting of prayers and the sound of the Dhol and Pepa.
Offerings to the Fire God: People offered 'Pitha' (rice cakes), betel nuts, and grains to the 'Agni Devta' (Fire God), seeking blessings for a prosperous year and a successful next harvest.
The Ritual of Ashes: After the Meji burns down, people carry the ashes to their farmlands, believing it will increase the fertility of the soil.
Bhogali Bihu is the festival of 'Bhog' or eating. Every Assamese household is filled with the aroma of:
Laroo and Pitha: Special rice cakes made of sesame (Til), coconut, and jaggery.
Jolpan: A traditional breakfast consisting of Chira (flattened rice), Pitha, and curd.
Traditional Sports: The day is also famous for community games like Egg fights (Koni-juj) and traditional buffalo fights (though regulated now) in places like Ahatguri.
Leaders across the country, including the Governor and Chief Minister of Assam, have extended their warm wishes, emphasizing that Magh Bihu reflects the rich agrarian culture and the indomitable spirit of the Assamese people.