Udalguri, June 2: The 17th Rabha National Festival, Baikho Puja, commenced at Tokonkata Regional Baikho Dham near Tangla in Udalguri district, marking the beginning of a two-day celebration of the Rabha community’s traditional and spiritual heritage.
The festival was inaugurated by Ratan Chandra Rabha, who also serves as the nominated Executive Member of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and President of the Tokonkata Regional Baikho Dham Management Committee. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, he emphasised the importance of preserving spiritual values, cultural identity and ancestral traditions to place the Rabha community on the global stage.
He also urged the government to declare the day of Baikho festival, observed on the full moon day of the Assamese month of Jeth, as an official public holiday. He stated that such recognition would enable members of the community to celebrate and offer prayers together with their families on this sacred occasion.
The programme began with the ceremonial hoisting of the flag, followed by traditional rituals, offerings and the reception of Deuris, the community’s traditional priests. Cultural activities and traditional competitions, including tug-of-war events among men and women from different villages, formed part of the opening day’s celebrations.
A tribute programme was also organised in memory of singer Zubeen Garg, late social worker Kamala Rabha and village head Deben Chandra Rabha. The homage segment featured performances and participation from several community members and cultural representatives. A tree plantation drive was also conducted as part of the event.
The festival is being organised by the Tokonkata Regional Baikho Dham Management Committee in collaboration with residents of Tokonkata and the greater Kalaigaon region. The second day’s schedule includes cultural programmes, exhibitions and a felicitation ceremony.
The open session was inaugurated by Babul Chandra Rabha, President of the All Rabha National Council, while Bishnu Priyam Rabha, Vice-President of Baikho Huri Assam, attended as a speaker. The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Charan Boro, BTC Deputy Chief Executive Member Rihan Daimari, Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Tonkeswar Rabha, legislators, BTC executive members and representatives of various organisations.
Evening cultural performances featured singer Nipu Rabha and artist Nisha Rabha, drawing significant audience participation. Organisers also announced special traditional dance presentations by visiting cultural groups as part of the ongoing festivities.
