The third Bihu festival of Assam, known as the Kati Bihu or the Kongali Bihu was celebrated across the state on October 18th, 2019.
Kati Bihu has a different flavour as there is less merriment and the atmosphere has a sense of solemnity. The essence of Kati Bihu is different because, during this time of the year, the paddy in the fields is in the growing stage and the granaries of the farmers are almost empty.
In a first, the Assam Government will celebrate Kati Bihu in Majuli. Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will attend the event.
Meanwhile, state leaders including Sonowal took to Twitter to wish the people of the State on the occasion of Kati Bihu. Sonowal in his tweet prayed for the welfare of the people of Assam. He also prayed for the prosperity of our farmers.
State Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also extended his wishes on the occasion of Kati Bihu. “May the light of the earthen lamps lit in the households on Kati Bihu eliminates all evils. May the Akashbanti brighten up the lives of our farmers,” he tweeted.
Assam Police too took to Twitter to wish the civilians a prosperous Kati Bihu.
Assam Pradesh Congress president Ripun Bora also wished the people on the occasion of Kati Bihu.
The Assamese people lit saki (earthen lamp) in front of the household Tulsi plant, granary and paddy fields. They pray for a good harvest and recite chants to keep pests at bay. During the evening, cattle are fed specially made pitha (rice pancakes).
This Bihu is also associated with the lighting of Akashbanti, a lamp at the top of a tall bamboo pole.
