GUWAHATI, April 13 � With only a day left for the Bohag Bihu or the Rongali Bihu � the biggest festival of the Assamese � the people have braced for according a befitting celebration to the occasion.
Spiralling rise in the prices of essential commodities, however, have cast a shadow over the festive spirit for a big segment of the populace which is finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the situation.
With showers at some places providing a much-needed respite for the people ahead of the Bihu besides lending a fresh touch to the atmosphere after the dry and dusty fagun days, the enthusiasm of the people for the Bihu seems to have heightened.
The first day of the Bohag Bihu -- called Goru Bihu (cow Bihu) - falls tomorrow (Thursday). It is an occasion dedicated to the cow which intrinsically linked to the State�s agrarian economy and rural life.
The morning of the day is marked by garlanding of the cows with wreaths of vegetables, after which the animals are taken to ponds and rivers for giving them a good bath. People also beat the animals with dighalati leaves (a plant with medicinal value) to ward off fleas and insects and sing Lao kha bengena kha, bachare bachare barhi ja (eat bottle gourd and brinjal and be a robust animal).
The second day is known as Manuh Bihu (people's Bihu), where the thrust is on merry-making and the general Bihu celebrations. The day begins with the young seeking the blessings of the elders in the morning. Hussori troupes visit households, especially in the rural areas, and present Bihu song and dance performances. Colourful Bihu functions start, which continue for several days. The day is also spent in visiting relatives and friends.
Meanwhile, along with the rest of the State, the city, too, has geared up for a grand Bihu celebration. Around hundred a bihutolis (community Bihu pandals) have come up in various localities of the city � all of which will be reverberating with the joyous Bihu spirit with three/four-day programmes.
Besides the regular Bihu song and dance and hussori competitions, the organizers have roped in reputed artistes to perform in the functions. The events during daytime include sports and literary contests among children.
The widely-participated Mukoli Bihu (open air Bihu) organized by the All Guwahati Students' Union (AGSU) at the Judges' Field every year is scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday), synchronizing with the Goru Bihu.
A number of luminaries who have contributed to the State in diverse fields will be felicitated on the occasion.
Another feature of the Mukoli Bihu is the colourful cultural function featuring various ethnic dances besides Bihu, hussori, etc. Several eminent artistes will also take part in the event.