Bihu songs are a part of which Indian state's folk tradition?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
Assam
Explanation
Bihu songs (Bihu Geet) are an integral part of the traditional folk culture of Assam. These songs are performed alongside the famous Bihu dance during the three distinct Bihu festivals celebrated by the Assamese people throughout the year, marking different phases of the agricultural calendar.
The lyrics of Bihu songs are traditionally structured as rhyming couplets that reflect the daily agrarian lifestyle of the Brahmaputra Valley. They extensively celebrate themes of nature, the arrival of spring, youth, romance, and the joys of the harvesting season. During performances, these songs are accompanied by traditional musical instruments like the Dhol (drum), Pepa (a horn instrument made from buffalo horn), Toka (bamboo clapper), and Gogona (jaw harp).
The other options possess completely distinct and world-famous folk traditions of their own:
Punjab is celebrated for its high-energy Bhangra and Giddha folk performances.
Gujarat is globally known for Garba and Dandiya Raas, which are central to its Navratri cultural festivities.
Odisha is rich in traditional folk art forms such as Sambalpuri dance and music, alongside its classical heritage.
Key Points
Assam celebrates three types of Bihu: Bohag Bihu (Spring festival/Assamese New Year), Kati Bihu (Autumn festival), and Magh Bihu (Winter harvest festival), with Bihu songs being most prominent during Bohag Bihu.
The songs are historically cross-cultural, passing down through oral traditions across various ethnic communities within the state, bonding the regional demographic together.
In recent times, Bihu dance and music achieved global recognition, setting world records for the largest traditional dance performance at a single venue.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which traditional wind instrument made from buffalo horn is commonly played to accompany Bihu songs in Assam?
Answer: The Pepa.
Question: Which of the three Bihu festivals celebrated in Assam marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year in mid-April?
Answer: Bohag Bihu (also known as Rongali Bihu).