AT Photo
Guwahati, Jan 11: As the State is gripped in festive mood of the season, locals of Amonikhali village in Assam's Raha have come up with a unique concept of constructing a theme-based Bhela Ghar for the upcoming Magh Bihu, which will be held on January 13 and 14.
The Bhela Ghar which resembles a Covid-19 vaccine, has been the centre of attraction during this time when the pandemic has wreaked havoc around the world. Apart from being an important ritual, the vaccine-themed Bhela Ghar is indeed creating awareness among the masses on the need to get vaccinated and act responsibly.
Reportedly, the 150- square feet temporary structure is prepared with bamboo and paddy thatch which is moulded in the form of a massive syringe that is carried by doctors and nurses who were injecting it into a coronavirus cell.
Speaking to the media, Bhagwan Senapati, President of the Amonikhali Bihu organising committee informed that the structure stands at a height of 25 feet. The construction of the Bhela Ghar was started last month and it took 10 to 12 people to complete the entire structure. At least one lakh rupees has been spent on its preparation.
The idea behind the Bhela Ghar was to create awareness among the masses to be more responsible during the pandemic and get vaccinated. At least 400 people are expected to gather in the Bhela Ghar for the Uruka community feast.
Bhela Ghar holds cultural significance in this part of the region during the Magh Bihu. It is a makeshift shelter for the night. On Uruka or Bihu eve, people gather for a community feast near the Bhela Ghar and Meji, where a bonfire is arranged. These are usually built in open fields which are now vacant after the rice is harvested. It is a source of communal enjoyment for the people.
