Agriculture based Folk Festivals of Different Tribes of Assam

Abstract

Every nation in the world has a common purpose behind the creation of different festivals. Many religious and non-religious meanings are hidden behind these folk festivals. A unique feature of such festivals celebrated by people from different ethnic groups and tribes is that these reflect an assimilation of varied cultures. In the case of Assamese culture as well, addition and subtraction of the traditional festivals of different castes and tribes have reflected a vivid panorama of unity and integrity. With the evolution of civilization, the human race has come to realize the issues through religious, social, psychological and natural experiences and such instances are being well-preserved through the folk festivals. Among the various national festivals of Assam, the cultural thinking of the ethnic tribes has been witnessed to be ascended. In the agricultural state of Assam, various agricultural festivals are celebrated. For example, in case of celebrating the Bihu festival, there are specific social customs and traditions according to the place and way of life of the tribal people. Magh Bihu, one of the three Bihus,  is basically an agricultural festival. Magh Bihu is a festival full of entertainment which starts with Uruka, when community feasts are organized and continues with various games and other entertainment activities. Various customs and practices, rituals, manners etc. are reflected in observation of the Bihu. Various customs and rituals followed by the tribes of Assam like Boro, Mising, Garo, Karbi, Tiwa, Tea-tribes, Deori, Dimasa, Rabha etc. while observing the agriculture-based festivals are also significant in the field of the rich Assamese culture.