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Context

• The Chandubi Festival is an annual cultural extravaganza celebrated near the enchanting Chandubi Lake in Assam's Kamrup district.
• Organized by the people of Rajapara village under the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), this vibrant event has been a significant part of the region for the past 14 years.
• The festival commenced on January 1 and continued until January 5.

Details

• History: The festival is deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of the region, celebrating the diversity, customs, and traditions of the local communities.
• Cultural Blend: It represents the confluence of various indigenous tribes and communities, each contributing their unique rituals, arts, crafts, and cultural practices.
• Cultural Programs: The festival features a rich tapestry of cultural performances including traditional dances like Bihu, Sattriya, and tribal dances, showcasing the vibrant folk culture of Assam.
• Music and Entertainment: Local musicians, singers, and performers entertain the audience with their melodious tunes, often accompanied by traditional instruments.
• Art and Craft Exhibition: There are stalls and exhibitions displaying indigenous arts and crafts, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the local artisans. Visitors can purchase handmade items, textiles, and traditional artifacts.
• Culinary Delights: The festival is a treat for food enthusiasts, offering a variety of Assamese cuisine and local delicacies. Visitors can indulge in authentic dishes like Assam tea, pithas (rice cakes), fish curries, and more.
• Sports and Games: Sporting events and traditional games are organized, adding an element of excitement and engagement among the attendees.
• Cultural Workshops: Workshops on traditional art forms, handloom weaving, pottery-making, and other cultural activities are often conducted, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn and engage.

Chandubi Lake

• Location: Chandubi Lake is situated approximately 65 kilometers away from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam, in the foothills of the Garo Hills.
• Formation: It is a natural lake that was formed due to massive landslides during the 1897 Assam earthquake, blocking the flow of the Chandubi River.
• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by forests and hills, the lake spans an area of about 200 hectares and offers breathtaking views of its tranquil waters against the backdrop of lush greenery.

Prominent Festivals of Assam

Bihu Festivals:

Bihu is the most widely celebrated and significant festival in Assam, observed with fervor and joy throughout the state. It is divided into three main Bihu festivals:

• Rongali Bihu (Bohag Bihu): Celebrated in April, it marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. People perform the traditional Bihu dance, known as 'Bihuwaan', and engage in feasting, music, and cultural events. The festival involves rituals to seek prosperity and happiness.
• Kongali Bihu (Kati Bihu): Observed in October, this festival is more solemn as it falls during the sowing season. People light lamps, worship plants, and perform rituals seeking a bountiful harvest.
• Bhogali Bihu (Magh Bihu): Celebrated in January, it marks the end of the harvest season. The festival is known for community feasts, bonfires, and traditional games like buffalo fights and egg fights.

Durga Puja:

Durga Puja is a grand festival celebrated by the Bengali community in Assam, paying homage to Goddess Durga. Elaborate pandals are constructed, showcasing artistic decorations, and people engage in prayers, cultural programs, and offering traditional sweets to the goddess.

Baishagu Festival:

Baishagu is an important Bodo tribal festival celebrated in mid-April to welcome the spring season. It involves traditional dances, songs, rituals, and cultural programs showcasing the rich heritage of the Bodo community. The festival symbolizes unity, peace, and prosperity.

Ali-Ai-Ligang:

Celebrated by the Mishing tribe in February, Ali-Ai-Ligang is an agricultural festival marking the beginning of the sowing season. It involves rituals, traditional dances, and folk music to invoke the blessings of the gods for a good harvest.

Me-Dam-Me-Phi:

Observed by the Ahom community, Me-Dam-Me-Phi is a festival paying homage to departed ancestors. People offer prayers and homage to the departed souls and seek their blessings for the well-being of the family.

Bohaggiyo Bishu:

Celebrated by the Deori tribe, Bohaggiyo Bishu is a spring festival observed in mid-April. It involves traditional dances, rituals, and cultural activities to welcome the spring season and seek blessings for a prosperous year.

Ambubachi Mela:

Held at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Ambubachi Mela is a significant religious festival dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. It marks the annual menstruation cycle of the goddess, and devotees gather to seek blessings during this time.

Conclusion

The Chandubi Festival is a celebration that encapsulates the essence of Assam's cultural heritage, offering a platform for locals and visitors to immerse themselves in a tapestry of traditions, arts, music, and culinary delights. It serves as a significant event that not only entertains but also educates and fosters a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural diversity of Assam.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. Which festival in Assam marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is celebrated to welcome the spring season? Options: A) Kongali Bihu B) Me-Dam-Me-Phi C) Rongali Bihu D) Bohaggiyo Bishu Correct Answer: C)