Assam Society of Bangalore (ASB) recently organised its 15th annual Bihu celebrations called Bohagi Adoroni 2013 at Kanteerava Indoor Stadium. Of the three Bihu festivals celebrated by the Assamese, the spring festival, Bohag Bihu, is the most important as it marks the beginning of the agricultural season.
The celebration spread over six hours and saw thousands of attendees eagerly participate in Bihu songs and dances, Bihu Konwori competitions and quiz contests. It was a time to celebrate the spirit of the community and they did so with great pomp and show. “Every year, we have a gathering so that the whole community can come together and celebrate.
This year, like in the past, we had a great response,” shares Dipankar Kalita, general secretary of ASB. The evening’s highlight was a performance by popular Assamese duo Dikshu Sarma and Priyanka Bharali. Another popular singer, Gautam Konwar, also performed to an energetic crowd alongside a host of local talents like Prozir and ‘29th Main Band’. Dances from Manipur, Nagaland and even Karnataka’s yakshagana were also on the cards.
“In the last few years, whenever we have performed, the response has been good. For us, it’s more about giving people their own music than the celebration of the New Year. But it’s always a lovely experience to be with the community,” shares Saranga Pani, vocalist of ‘29th Main Band’. Given the occasion, the young and old were dressed in traditional attire and had a great time.
“This was my first Bihu experience in Bangalore and I felt like I was transported to Assam sitting right here. ASB put up a brilliant evening of cultural extravaganza. The Bihu songs and dances were exquisite and the crowd went just berserk when Priyanaka and Dikshu took to the stage. Even the food stalls serving traditional Assamese cuisine was a wonderful touch,” shares Rajesh Kumar, an attendee.
B M Gogoi, who has been associated with the organisation since its inception in 1982, adds, “My family and I have been part of all the Bihu celebrations that have been organised over the years. The entire community comes alive and is brought together and this year too has been no exception. It was a very well organised and extremely enjoyable cultural evening.”
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> Supplements> Metrolife / DHNS – April 10th, 2013