North Lakhimpur: Ebaku Bisu, the Bohag Bihu festival of the Deori community, was celebrated across Lakhimpur district with traditional fervour and customary rituals over the past two days.
The Deori community, one of Assam’s indigenous tribes, observes Bohag Bihu on the first Wednesday and Thursday of the Assamese month of Bohag. This year, the festival coincided with Rongali Bihu, as the first Wednesday fell on the opening day of the month, adding to the festive spirit across the district.
The celebrations commenced on April 15 with the observance of Uruka. Community members stayed awake through the night and performed the ritual bathing of cattle early the next morning. The day also included offerings made in memory of ancestors. At noon, prayers were held at Kundiku Deo Ghars in various villages, where goats, ducks, chickens and pigeons were offered as part of traditional rituals.
On April 16, the main Bihu celebrations featured traditional mud dances performed in village courtyards, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Deori community. The festivities later culminated in gatherings at the courtyard of the village head priest, marking the beginning of the extended 12-day celebration period.