Bohag Bihu, also known as Rongali Bihu, is the most vibrant and widely celebrated festival in Assam. Marking the Assamese New Year and the onset of spring, it is a festival of joy, renewal, and togetherness. Beyond a harvest festival, Bohag Bihu symbolizes a fresh start, welcoming new hopes, gratitude for a bountiful harvest, and celebrations with music, dance, and, above all, food.
Bohag Bihu is fundamentally intertwined with Assamese culture, where the act of feasting holds significant importance. The celebration would not be complete without the creation and distribution of traditional foods that have been cherished over the years. These special dishes are made from locally grown ingredients, highlighting the state’s rich agricultural heritage. From crispy Pitha to sweet Laru and comforting Jolpan, every dish has a story to tell.
During Bohag Bihu, people are typically invited for lunch or dinner through informal visits to friends and relatives’ homes. These visits are a key part of the festival’s celebrations, with individuals and families going door-to-door to greet the new year and offer greetings and wishes.
Some families may also organize larger community feasts, inviting friends and neighbors to come together for a shared meal and celebration.
Speaking exclusively to Chef Nayanjyoti Saikia, brings you easy-to-follow recipes that you can whip up and enjoy with friends and colleagues:
Pork with Sesame Seeds (Til Gahori): Bringing the warmth of home to your plate – ‘Til Diya Gahori’, a cherished Assamese delicacy made with tender pork and the nutty richness of sesame seeds. Perfectly rustic, deeply flavorful, and a true celebration of tradition.
Roasted Pork Salad: Experience the authentic flavors of the Northeast in every bite! This Roasted Pork Salad combines local herbs and veggies to bring you the bold, vibrant tastes of the region. Every ingredient celebrates the Northeast’s rich culinary heritage.
Ghost Pepper Chicken Wings (Bhut Jolokia Chicken Wings): Prepare for a flavor rollercoaster ride with fiery ghost pepper (Bhut Jolokia) chicken wings – irresistibly juicy, sweet, tangy, and packing a serious spicy punch!
