Bihu dance

What is Bihu dance?

Bihu dance is a group folk dance from Assam, India, performed mainly by young men and women. It is marked by energetic steps and quick hand gestures, with dancers moving in unison to lively music. The dance is often seen during the Bihu festival, which marks the Assamese New Year and the arrival of spring. The dancers wear costumes dominated by red, a color symbolizing joy and energy. The performance is joyful and expressive, reflecting the spirit of the festival.

Where does Bihu dance come from?

The exact origins of Bihu dance are not known, but it has long been important to many of Assam's ethnic groups, including the Deori, Sonowal Kachari, Chutia, Boro, Mising, Rabha, Moran, and Borahi communities. Scholars believe it began as a fertility ritual, celebrating both the land and people. Ancient sculptures from the 9th century in Tezpur and Darrang show early depictions of the dance, and it is mentioned in 14th-century inscriptions. Traditionally, it was danced outdoors, often under fig trees or by rivers.

How is Bihu dance danced?

The dance starts with performers entering slowly. Men play instruments while women form an inverted triangle with their hands above their hips. The women sway gently, bending forward from the waist, then open their shoulders and stand with legs apart. As the music speeds up, they thrust their chest and pelvis forward in time with the rhythm. The group moves together, using brisk footwork and expressive hand movements.

The music of Bihu dance

Music for Bihu dance is played by the male dancers and includes the dhol (a double-headed drum), horn-pipes, and flutes. The rhythm is lively, with the drums and hornpipes said to mimic the sounds of rain and thunder, echoing the festival’s link to spring and fertility. The tempo increases as the dance progresses, encouraging energetic movement.

Costume and what is carried

Dancers wear costumes that feature red as the main color, representing joy and vitality. The specific clothing styles are traditional to Assam, but the sources highlight the red theme as central. No props are typically used. The overall look is festive and bright, matching the spirit of the celebration.

When and where Bihu dance is danced

Bihu dance is performed during the Bohag Bihu or Rangali Bihu festival in mid-April, which is the Assamese New Year and a celebration of spring. It is a group activity, mainly involving young men and women, and was once a courtship dance. Today, it is also performed on stage and at cultural events, including record-setting gatherings.

Styles of Bihu dance

There are different kinds of Bihu dance, such as Rati Bihu, celebrated by various communities in Assam. While the core style remains, local customs and group traditions can shape how it is performed. In recent years, large-scale performances and stage presentations have become common.

What Bihu dance means

Bihu dance is a symbol of Assamese culture and identity. Once looked down upon during colonial times for its sensual style, it is now widely celebrated. The dance is central to the Bihu festival and has been performed by thousands in record-setting events, such as the 2023 Guinness World Record in Guwahati. It reflects both tradition and modern pride in Assam.

Days Bihu dance is danced for

Questions people ask about Bihu dance

Good reading and sources

• Bihu dance on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos and video on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data
• Videos of Bihu dance on YouTubeSearch results, not chosen by Ghungroo