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Dheki pulling crowds at Bhogali fair

By STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI, Jan 9 � In a welcome diversion, the rhythmic beat of the dheki is drowning all other noises in the areas close to Lakhidhar Bora Khetra here. The dheki and other objects integral to the cultural life of the State have been showcased by the Chira Seuj Kala Kristi Bikash Kendra that is organising the Bhogali fair at the Lakhidhar Bora Khetra.

What has been interesting is that the kids born and brought up in this concrete jungle have been pleasantly surprised by the sight of the dheki and its working process. Children as well as adults were seen giving a try at the dheki with of course little result.

The Mayong Anchalik Mahila Mancha and Surujmukhi Self Help Group of Pamohi have been entertaining the visitors to the fair not only with mouth-watering traditional delicacies but also by showcasing a slice of rural Assam. They have used several dhekis to prepare the traditional delicacies.

�My children have never been to any village so far. I bring them to this fair every year so that they know something about rural Assam,� said Sangeeta Dutta, a housewife.

It needs to be mentioned here that the Chira Seuj Kala Kristi Bikash Kendra has been regularly organising this Bhogali extravaganza with the aim to remind people about their culture. This fair has become popular with the citizens because every year different aspects of rural life are highlighted by the organizers.

The fair that began on January 8 will continue till January 13.

�My son gave a try at the dheki. He is very curious about this particular object and I feel happy explaining to him about life in rural Assam, our customs and festivals,� said Nibedita Baruah.

The fair ground on Wednesday was crowded with parents and children. Apart from the dheki, the young people took interest in the different traditional delicacies that were prepared on the spot. Tilpitha, tekelimukhat diya pitha, etc., were prepared on the spot over firewood and served hot.

Another delight for the foodies is the array of ethnic dishes. With the temperature plummeting these days, roasted meat and fish found favour with the foodies.

�Nowadays people are keen to experiment with their food habits and ethnic dishes is the latest fad amongst the foodies,� said Rupanjali Payeng. Meat and fish prepared in different styles are available at her stall.

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