Magh Bihu

For the Japanese word, see Meiji.
For the acronym MEJI, see Mars Exploration Joint Initiative.

Magh Bihu (also called Bhogali Bihu (Bihu of enjoyment) or Maghar Domahi) is a harvest festival celebrated in Assam, India, which marks the end of harvesting season in the month of Maagha (January–February).[1] It is the Assam celebration of Sankranthi, with feasting lasting for a week.[2]

The festival is marked by feasts and bonfires.[3] Young people erect makeshift huts, known as meji, from bamboo, leaves and thatch, in which they eat the food prepared for the feast, and then burn the huts the next morning.[4] The celebrations also feature traditional Assamese games such as tekeli bhonga (pot-breaking) and buffalo fighting.[5]

See also

Makar Sankranti

References

  1. ^ Bhatt, S. C.; Land and people of Indian states and union territories (2005). Land and people of Indian states and union territories. Gyan Publishing House. p. 305. ISBN 9788178353562. 
  2. ^ Sharma, S. P.; Seema Gupta (2006). Fairs & Festivals Of India. Pustak Mahal. p. 25. ISBN 9788122309515. 
  3. ^ The New Encyclopædia Britannica. 21. Encyclopaedia Britannica. 1987. p. 137. ISBN 9780852295717. 
  4. ^ "Bihu being celebrated with joy across Assam". The Hindu. January 14, 2005. http://www.hindu.com/2005/01/14/stories/2005011410220300.htm. Retrieved 2009-05-02. 
  5. ^ "Bonfire, feast & lots more - Jorhat celebrations promise traditional joy this Magh Bihu". The Telegraph. January 12, 2008. http://www.telegraphindia.com/1080112/jsp/northeast/story_8771062.jsp. Retrieved 2009-05-02. 
Major festivals
Regional New Year
Holy days
Holy periods