More than 10,000 performers will come together to present the Bagurumba dance at Arjun Bhogeswar Baruah Stadium on Saturday. The grand cultural event will mark the first day of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Assam.
Titled Bagurumba Dwhou 2026, the programme will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Bodo community. In the Bodo language, dwhou means “wave,” symbolising the collective rhythm and unity of the performers.
Notably, this will be Prime Minister Modi’s second visit to Assam in less than a month.
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Mass Participation from Across Assam
Around 8,000 dancers from all 81 Assembly constituencies across 23 districts will take part in the performance. Musicians will accompany them, adding depth and rhythm to the presentation.
On Friday evening, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reviewed the final rehearsals at the venue. He interacted with performers and officials to ensure smooth execution of the large-scale event.
Officials said the massive participation reflects the inclusive nature of the programme and the widespread cultural roots of Bagurumba across the state.
About the Bagurumba Dance
Bagurumba is a traditional folk dance of the Bodo community, Assam’s largest indigenous group. The dance draws inspiration from nature and reflects elements such as fluttering butterflies, blooming flowers, birds in flight, and gently swaying leaves.
Traditionally, women perform Bagurumba, while men provide musical accompaniment. Instruments such as the kham, serja, sifung, jatha, and japshring create its distinctive soundscape.
The dance celebrates harmony between humans and nature and carries strong cultural symbolism.
Linked to Festivals and Cultural Identity
Bagurumba holds a special place in Bodo festivals such as Bwisagu, the Bodo New Year, and Domasi. Through graceful movements and rhythmic music, the dance expresses peace, fertility, joy, and unity.
Performers usually sing in the Bodo language, which further strengthens cultural identity and community pride.
Cultural experts say Bagurumba continues to serve as a living tradition that connects younger generations with their roots.
Extensive Training and Preparation
Organisers undertook large-scale preparations to ensure quality and uniformity. As part of the process, 400 master trainers received specialised training under the guidance of 25 experts.
These trainers then coached local artists in their respective districts. Officials said the decentralised training model helped maintain authenticity while achieving coordination for the mega performance.
The event has been organised by Bodo community organisations with active support from the Assam government.
Showcasing Bodo Culture to the World
Assam Cultural Affairs Minister Bimal Borah said the event aims to take Bodo culture to a wider national and international audience. He added that such platforms help preserve indigenous traditions while promoting cultural tourism.
The Bagurumba showcase follows similar large-scale cultural presentations in Assam in recent years, including mass performances of Bihu and Jhumoir dances.
Cultural Highlight of the Visit
Officials described Bagurumba Dwhou 2026 as a key cultural highlight of the Prime Minister’s visit. They believe the event will leave a lasting impression and underline Assam’s cultural diversity.
With thousands of performers moving in unison, the programme is expected to present a powerful visual narrative of tradition, unity, and pride rooted in the Bodo heritage.
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