Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu is an integral aspect of Assamese cultural identity. While it has evolved over time, Bihu has mostly preserved its traditional spirit and has crossed social divides, being celebrated by various communities throughout Assam. Recently, Bohag Bihu has become a means of connecting with the broader nation.
In Assam, Bohag Bihu and the ‘kopou phool’ — the Assamese new year and the foxtail orchid — have an intimate connection. The blooming of this beautiful, pinkish-purple orchid on trees signifies the arrival of spring, and Bihu, which is celebrated on April 14 every year.
Botanical identity of ‘Kopou Phool’
Rhynchostylis retusa, commonly known as the foxtail orchid, is a member of the Vanda alliance of orchids. The inflorescence features a drooping raceme with over 100 white flowers adorned with pink spots. This plant possesses a short, thick, creeping stem that supports up to 12 curved, fleshy leaves, which are deeply channeled, keeled, and have a retuse apex. It produces a pendant inflorescence that can reach lengths of up to 60 cm (24 in), characterized by a dense arrangement of flowers, and typically blooms during the winter and early spring. The flower derives its name from the dense cluster of tiny, fragrant blossoms that resemble a fox’s tail.
Cultural significance
The kopou phool, scientifically known as Rhynchostylis retusa, holds great cultural importance in Assam, particularly for the Bodo and Assamese populations. During Bihu, Assam’s most prominent festival, this adornment holds significant importance. Women frequently incorporate it into their hair buns, representing beauty, prosperity, and cultural heritage. The flower embodies romanticism and purity, and it is commonly featured in folk songs and dances.
State Flower of Assam
The kopou phool, is the official state flower of Assam. This flower carries great cultural significance in the region, symbolizing love and fertility. It is commonly featured in numerous ceremonies and festivals, particularly during Bihu. Its selection underscores Assam’s efforts to conserve indigenous flora and promote ecological awareness.
Habitat and Blooming Season
The blooming season for kopou phool is generally in late spring, typically around April. This coincides with the Rongali Bihu festival, the Assamese New Year, making it a significant cultural symbol. Recent reports suggest that the flowering season could be starting earlier as a result of changing climate conditions, with certain blooms appearing as early as March. It is mainly found in northeastern India, especially in Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Environmental Role
The kopou phool, is essential to Assam’s ecosystem as it indicates the area’s environmental health and represents the region’s abundant biodiversity. The existence of orchids in the varied ecosystems of Assam highlights the region’s abundant biodiversity and serves as a reminder of the importance of its conservation. Shifting climate patterns, characterized by increased temperatures and decreased precipitation, are affecting the flowering schedule of the Kopou Phool, leading to earlier blooms than typically observed.
Conservation Concerns
Conserving orchids in Assam is essential, and numerous initiatives are currently in progress. These include efforts to reintroduce endangered species into their natural environments and to address issues related to illegal trade and smuggling. The kopou phool, an epiphyte, depends on trees for its existence. In Assam, deforestation, particularly in regions such as the Chala Reserve Forest, poses a significant danger by eliminating their natural habitat.
A Symbol of Assamese Identity
The kopou phool, represents more than merely being the state flower of Assam; it serves as a lively emblem of Assamese culture and identity. This fragile flower, characterized by its pinkish-white hue and reminiscent of a fox’s tail, holds significant cultural importance in Assamese traditions. It symbolizes love, youth, and fresh starts, particularly during celebrations such as Bohag Bihu.
Conclusion
The kopou phool is not just a flower; it is a living symbol of Assam’s natural charm, cultural pride, and ecological sensitivity. Learning about and appreciating this beautiful orchid is a step toward celebrating and conserving Assam’s rich heritage. These are some of the most beautiful flowers you can give to your loved ones.
