Read the statements about Bihu festivals in Assam and choose the correct option:
1.) Goru Bihu of Kati Bihu involves sky lamps to attract pests.
2.) Uruka before Magh Bihu features bonfires and feasting.
3.) Manuh Bihu includes gifting Gamucha and traditional dishes.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: Only 2 and 3 are correct.
Explanation –
In Assam, Bihu is celebrated three times a year, corresponding to different stages of the agricultural cycle.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The tradition of lighting 'Akashdeep' (sky lamps) takes place during Kati Bihu to ward off pests from the crops; however, 'Goru Bihu' is a day dedicated to honoring cattle, celebrated on the first day of Bohag Bihu (in April). Kati Bihu is also referred to as 'Kongali Bihu' because grain stocks are typically low during this period.
Statement 2 is correct: The eve of Magh Bihu (in January) is known as 'Uruka'. On this night, people light a 'Meji' (a bonfire constructed from bamboo and dried leaves), spend the night in a 'Bhelaghar' (a temporary hut), and organize a community feast.
Statement 3 is correct: The second day of Bohag Bihu is called 'Manuh Bihu'. On this day, people wear new clothes, seek the blessings of elders, and exchange traditional 'Gamosas' as well as special Bihu delicacies such as pitha and chiwda with one another.
Additional Points –
Bohag Bihu (Rongali Bihu): Celebrated in mid-April, this festival marks the Assamese New Year. It is a celebration characterized by joy and dance.
Magh Bihu (Bhogali Bihu): Celebrated in January following the harvest season, its primary highlights are food and the lighting of the 'Meji'.
Kati Bihu (Kongali Bihu): Celebrated in October, this festival involves lighting lamps near the Tulsi (Holy Basil) plant and in the fields to pray for a bountiful harvest.
The 'Gamosa' a symbol of pride for Assamese culture has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI Tag) by the Government of India.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers –
Question: Which Bihu festival of Assam coincides with 'Makar Sankranti'?
Answer: Magh Bihu (Bhogali Bihu). Question: 'Gamosa', which recently received a GI tag, belongs to which state?
Answer: Assam.