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Bihu may see changes in performances this time

By Staff Reporter

GUWAHATI, March 8 - Guwahatians might expect to see a revolution on the stage this Bihu season. The sight of a guitarist or a percussionist in dhoti or singers in ethnic wear is sure to add some charisma to the Spring festival this time. With the Brihattar Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani Samannayrakshi Samiti leaving no stone unturned to ensure that citizens can experience Rongali Bihu in its original appeal, the Bihu stages will reflect a riot of colours and designs.

The Samiti is determined to convince all its member Bihu Sanmilanis as well to implement a set of rules so as not to allow any degradation while celebrating this cultural extravaganza.

Addressing media persons here on Tuesday, Ranjan Borah, president of the Samiti, said that with the most loved Rongali Bihu celebrations witnessing some undesirable changes in the last few years, the Brihattar Guwahati Bihu Sanmilani Samannayrakshi Samiti has decided to follow a set of rules to retain the originality of the festival.

�We have come up with a few norms that would be implemented by our members. We have also appealed to all the other Bihu Sanmilanis across the State to follow these norms so that our festival is not subjected to any degradation,� Borah said, adding that if these norms are followed by all Sanmilanis the celebrations would be smooth and peaceful.

It needs to be mentioned that the norms were agreed upon at an executive meet of the Samiti. The meet had unanimously decided that the Rongali Bihu celebrations should not be an extended affair but should be celebrated between the last day of the Assamese month of Chot and the last day of Bohag.

The Samiti has requested all the Bihu Sanmilanis to conclude their programmes before midnight to prevent any untoward incidents. The Samiti pointed out that the performances throughout the night are not only taxing for the artistes but also responsible for accidents.

�We have also requested the artistes to adhere to traditional dress code,� informed Borah. He further observed that the artistes should not be very demanding as that becomes a big burden for the Bihu Sanmilanis, the result being the celebrations getting commercialised.

The Samiti has urged the Bihu Sanmilanis to purchase gamocha from the local weavers and has called upon the government to declare the first three days of Rongali Bihu as dry days.

�Our members will give preference to local and folk artistes and we expect other Bihu Sanmilanis as well to give an opportunity to the folk artistes,� Borah said.

On the other hand, the Samiti has submitted a memorandum to the Election Commission to pre-pone the second phase of Assembly elections in Assam in view of the festival.

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