The Moran community in Assam marked the onset of Bohag Bihu with the traditional Goru Bihu celebrations in Kakopathar, Tinsukia district, on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. Goru Bihu, a significant part of the Assamese New Year celebrations, was observed with great enthusiasm and fervor, as members of the Moran community came together to pay respects to cattle, which hold a special place in the agrarian lifestyle of the region. The community’s connection to the land and its traditions was evident as they performed rituals to honor the animals that play an integral role in their daily lives.
Goru Bihu, which occurs a day before the main Bihu festivities, is primarily focused on celebrating cattle, a symbol of prosperity and vitality in the rural economy. On this day, the Moran people bathe and decorate their cows, bulls, and other livestock with fresh flowers and colored threads, treating them to special offerings of food. It is a time for the community to express gratitude to these animals for their contribution to farming, transportation, and sustenance. The cattle are then driven to fields and homes, marking the beginning of the agricultural season.
The festival, deeply ingrained in the Moran community’s culture, highlights their rich history and distinctive identity within Assam’s broader cultural landscape. The community’s unique customs include their language, clothing, and lifestyle, all of which are showcased during the Bohag Bihu celebrations. The colorful dances, folk songs, and traditional rituals not only strengthen the community’s bonds but also act as a reminder of the deep connection between the Moran people and the land they inhabit.
During the Goru Bihu celebrations in Kakopathar, the air was filled with excitement as families participated in rituals that date back generations. The younger members of the community eagerly helped their elders in the preparations, while the older generation passed down traditional practices. The sight of well-decorated cattle and the sound of traditional Moran folk music added to the festive atmosphere of the day.
Bohag Bihu holds immense significance for the Moran community, as it does for the wider Assamese population. It marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year, a time for new beginnings, reflection, and celebration. The month-long festival, known for its cultural vibrancy, includes various events such as Bihu dances, feasts, and communal prayers. However, Goru Bihu stands out as a day dedicated to the animals that are crucial to the community’s agricultural activities. For the Moran people, it is a day of renewal and thanks.
In addition to honoring cattle, Goru Bihu also marks the end of the winter season and the arrival of spring, which is a vital time for farming. The rituals performed during Goru Bihu are believed to ensure a bountiful harvest and good health for both the people and their livestock. It is not just a celebration of the animals but also a spiritual renewal for the community, with prayers offered for the prosperity of all.
The Moran community’s adherence to these customs has remained strong despite the changes in the region over the years. It is a testament to their resilience and commitment to preserving their cultural heritage. Events like the Goru Bihu celebrations in Kakopathar help keep the traditions alive for future generations, ensuring that the rich history and vibrant customs of the Moran people continue to thrive.
As the Bihu celebrations unfolded in Kakopathar, the spirit of unity and tradition filled the air. The Moran community, through their dedication to preserving their way of life, not only celebrated the arrival of Bohag Bihu but also reaffirmed their cultural identity and connection to the land. It was a reminder of the importance of family, community, and the natural world, values that have sustained the Moran people for centuries.
In a rapidly changing world, festivals like Goru Bihu serve as vital links between the past and present. They are a reminder of the strength of cultural traditions and the importance of maintaining a bond with one’s roots. For the Moran community, Bohag Bihu and Goru Bihu are not just festivals; they are a living testament to their history, culture, and the deep respect they hold for the land and animals that sustain them.
