The celebration of Rongali Bihu 2025 in Chennai was a spectacular showcase of Assamese culture, unity, and culinary heritage. Held in collaboration between the Assam Association Chennai and IIT Madras (IIT-M), the event brought together members of the Assamese community, students, and cultural enthusiasts for a joyous and vibrant celebration of one of Assam’s most significant festivals.
Rongali Bihu, also known as Bohag Bihu, marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of the spring season. It is one of the most important festivals in Assam, celebrated with much enthusiasm through traditional dance, music, and food. The festival is a time for family reunions, cultural exchanges, and feasts. In 2025, the festival in Chennai gained particular significance as it bridged the cultural gap, bringing the heart of Assam to the heart of Tamil Nadu, offering both locals and Assamese expatriates a unique glimpse into the rich traditions of the northeastern state.
The Cultural Extravaganza
The celebrations kicked off with a vibrant Bihu dance performance, featuring traditional folk dances from Assam. Dressed in traditional Assamese attire, the performers showcased the graceful moves of Bihu dance, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of dhol and pepa (a traditional Assamese musical instrument). The dance, a symbol of joy and festivity, captured the essence of the festival, with performers displaying a perfect blend of agility and elegance.
The cultural program also included performances of Assamese folk music, with soulful renditions of traditional songs that resonated with the spirit of Bihu. The crowd was treated to the magic of Assamese music, with instrumental ensembles that showcased the region’s rich musical heritage. The lively performances, filled with energy and emotion, left attendees feeling connected to the culture of Assam, despite being miles away from the state.
Culinary Delights from Assam
No festival is complete without food, and the Assamese culinary heritage was front and center at the Rongali Bihu celebrations. The event featured a sumptuous feast that included a variety of traditional Assamese dishes, offering a delightful experience for the taste buds of attendees.
Among the most popular dishes was pitha, a traditional Assamese rice cake that is an essential part of Bihu celebrations. The pitha, available in several varieties, was made fresh and served to the delight of attendees. Another highlight of the food spread was masor tenga, a tangy fish curry made with fresh fish and a unique blend of spices, which is a staple in Assamese cuisine. Khaar, a dish made with raw papaya, pulses, and alkaline water, also became a crowd favorite. Each dish reflected the flavors of Assam, giving everyone a taste of the state’s culinary diversity.
In addition to these, there was laru (sweet rice balls), chunga pitha (rice cakes cooked in bamboo), and a variety of Assamese sweets, which were served alongside assam tea, one of the most celebrated beverages in the world. The food not only reflected Assam’s agricultural richness but also told the story of the state’s long-standing food traditions.
Promoting Unity and Cultural Exchange
The collaboration between the Assam Association Chennai and IIT Madras was an ideal platform for cultural exchange and community bonding. While Assam’s cultural influence has long been a part of India’s diverse heritage, the event in Chennai brought a fresh opportunity for people from different states and backgrounds to experience Assamese culture firsthand.
Dr. Ramesh, President of the Assam Association Chennai, highlighted the importance of such events in fostering a sense of unity among diverse communities. “Rongali Bihu is not just about celebrating Assam’s cultural richness but also about sharing our heritage with others. It’s an occasion for people to come together, irrespective of their backgrounds, and celebrate the spirit of unity and joy,” said Dr. Ramesh.
The event was not just a celebration of Assamese traditions but also a platform for students and professionals from Assam who are part of the IIT Madras community to reconnect with their roots. The IIT-M student community, known for its diversity, joined hands with the Assam Association Chennai to organize the event, making it a vibrant confluence of youth energy, talent, and love for culture.
A Platform for Young Talent
Rongali Bihu also provided a stage for young talent from the Assamese community to shine. From Bihu dance performances by local youth to art exhibitions showcasing traditional Assamese artwork, the event was a platform for young people to engage with their cultural heritage and share it with the wider community. It was also an opportunity for students and professionals to connect with one another, strengthening the sense of community and cultural pride.
Looking Ahead
As Rongali Bihu 2025 concluded, attendees left with full hearts, a deeper understanding of Assam’s culture, and a renewed sense of belonging. The success of this event was a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the importance of celebrating one’s heritage while embracing diversity.
Looking ahead, the Assam Association Chennai and IIT Madras have expressed their commitment to making the Rongali Bihu celebrations an annual event, continuing to bridge cultures and foster unity in the years to come. The celebration is expected to grow bigger with each passing year, offering an even more immersive experience of Assam’s vibrant culture for people in Chennai and beyond.
In the words of one of the attendees, “It’s events like these that remind us of the beauty of our diverse culture. Rongali Bihu is not just about Assam; it’s about celebrating the spirit of togetherness that transcends all boundaries.”