Festivals of North East India – The 7 sisters of the North East hold a cornucopia of delights as well as cultural richness within their boundaries. Festivals in North East India flaunt its rich culture. Most of the festivals here are either related to agriculture, Buddhism or beginning of a New Year. There are many festivals that extend over a number of days and include folk/tribal dance and music. Here is a list of handpicked North East festivals which showcase the natural charm, artistic abilities as well as savory cuisine of these seven stunning states. Most of these festivals shed light on the beauty and diversity of tribal life and art forms that abound in the North Eastern states of India.
If you are planning a trip somewhere, here are a few popular festivals of North-east India that you should consider attending:
1. Bihu Event, Assam
This is a festival of the Assamese New Year. Bohag Bihu, as it is locally known, is one of the one of the biggest festivals in Assam. It is popular thrice a year, i.e, Rongali Bihu or Bohag, Kongali Bihu or Kaati and Bhogali Bihu or Maagh. The festival begins from the 14th of April as well as is spread across seven days. On the very first day, the bulls are fed as well as bathed. On the day of the main event, people adorn themselves and also present each various other with a Gamosa. This is when the children of the tribe do the Bihu Dancing. Several Assamese delicacies are prepared during this festival.
2. Hornbill Festival, Nagaland
The many festivals in North East India highlight the region’s rich indigenous culture with folk songs, tribal dances, food, and crafts.
Nagaland, which shares a border with Myanmar, has actually truly embraced the idea of tourism. The Hornbill Festival is perhaps one of the most renowned as well as largest of the North East India festivals, and also it’s absolutely Nagaland’s huge draw card. Named after the state’s most admired bird, the event showcases the heritage of the 16 tribes there, which along with dancing flaunt their hunting and also waring skills. Throughout the years, the Hornbill Festival has actually grown to incorporate the Hornbill National Rock Show, which attracts bands from around India to compete, as well as a night market.
3. Wangala Festival, Meghalaya
This is a festival of the Garo tribe and also is kept in the second week of November annually. It is a post-harvest festival that honors Misi Saljong. The ritulas are done by the Nokma or the Principal of the tribe and the offerings consist of cooked rice, brewed beer as well as vegetables. The music are the highlight and the festival is also called the 100 drum festival.
4. Ziro Festival of Music, Arunachal Pradesh
A iconic outdoor music festival in one of India’s most remote as well as picturesque locations (think rich paddy areas and pine clad mountains), Ziro features a combination of 30 indie bands from across the world and also top individual acts from throughout northeast India. It’s one of the greatest outdoor songs events in the nation! Camping facilities are provided.
