Which harvest festival of Assam is celebrated with community feasts and bonfires in January?
ARongali Bihu
BKongali Bihu
CBhogali Bihu
DKati Bihu
Answer:
C. Bhogali Bihu
Read Explanation:
- Bhogali Bihu, also known as Magh Bihu, is a prominent harvest festival celebrated in Assam during the month of Magh (mid-January).
- The name 'Bhogali' is derived from the word 'Bhog', which means enjoyment or eating, signifying the abundance of harvest.
- The festival marks the end of the harvesting season and the conclusion of the winter solstice.
- A central feature of the celebration is the construction of Meji and Bhelaghar.
- Meji: A tall, conical structure made of thatch, wood, and bamboo, which is set ablaze on the morning of the festival.
- Bhelaghar: Temporary huts constructed by villagers where they stay the night, cook communal meals, and feast.
- The festival emphasizes community bonding, featuring traditional sports like Tekeli Bhonga (pot breaking), buffalo fighting, and cockfighting in rural areas.
- This is one of the three major Bihu festivals in Assam; the others are Rongali Bihu (marking the Assamese New Year) and Kongali Bihu (the festival of scarcity).
- Culinary traditions involve preparing traditional rice cakes known as Pitha (such as Til Pitha) and Laru (sweets made of coconut or sesame).