Singha, Ranjit and Singha, Surjit, Kati Bihu: Exploring Its Cultural Significance and Agrarian Traditions in Assam's Harvest Festival among the Koch Rajbongshi Community (October 17, 2024). Available at SSRN: https://lnkd.in/g55Q4xCg
Kati Bihu is an integral festival in Assam, celebrated during the critical period of rice planting in the agrarian calendar. This article explores the cultural, agricultural, and social significance of Kati Bihu, highlighting its role in reinforcing identity and fostering community cohesion. The festival's origins, historical evolution, and rituals-such as the lighting of lamps and the worship of the Tulsi plant-demonstrate the deep connections between culture and nature. In examining Kati Bihu's relevance in the modern era, this article addresses the challenges posed by urbanization, climate change, and the need for cultural preservation. By emphasizing the importance of continuing to celebrate Kati Bihu, the article reflects on the festival's adaptability and resilience, ensuring that its cultural essence endures for future generations. On Kati Bihu, the Koch Rajbongshi community lights diyas made from elephant apple fruits in their paddy fields, symbolizing gratitude and protection while observing a day of fasting. The word "Kati" originates from the Kamatapuri phrase "Kati-Ba LagBo," which translates to "I have to cut," referring to the upcoming harvest. In the Kamatapuri language, the entire month is called "Kati Mash," or Kati Month. It is celebrated by most communities in Assam, with slight variations in rituals from one community to another. Kamatapuri Language is also known as Rajbongshi Language. However, the primitive Language of Koch Rajbongshi is Koch, thus how the community is known as Koch Rajbongshi.
Keywords: Kati Bihu, culture, agricultural traditions, community cohesion, cultural preservation, agrarian practices, climate change, cultural identity, rituals, Assam
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