Assam is a land of fairs and festivals.

Most of the festivals celebrated in Assam characterize the

spirit of accommodation and togetherness in the diverse faith and belief of her inhabitants. This
perfect fusion of heritage of her numerous races has made Assam the home of the most colorful
festivals reflecting the true spirit, tradition and lifestlye of the people of Assam.
The major festivals celebrated in Assam are Bihu, Baishagu, Ali-Ai-Ligang, Baikho, Rongker, Rajini
Gabra Harni Gabra, Bohaggiyo Bishu, Ambubashi Mela and Jonbill Mela and so on.
The people of Assam also celebrate Holi, Durga Puja, Diwali, Swaraswati Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali
Puja, Idd, Muharram, Me-Dam-Me-Phi, the birth and death anniversaries of Vaishnava Saints
Srimanta Sankardev and Madhabdev.
The tribals of Assam have their own colourful festivals like the Kherai Puja of the Bodos, the Baikhu
and Pharkantis of the Rabhas, Ali-ai-ligang and Parag of the Mishing tribe, the Sagra-misawa
wansawa and laghun of the Tiwas.

Bihu
Bihu is the most important festival of Assam. It is celebrated with
joy and abundance by all Assamese people irrespective of caste,
creed, religion, faith and belief.
Three Bihus are celebrated in a year: Bohag Bihu which augurs
the wish for a good harvest because this is the time when farmers
start sowing, Kaati Bihu which is observed to mark the cutting
and binding of grains and Magh Bihu which marks the season of
harvesting of grains.

Me-Dum-Me-Phi
The most important Ahom festival which deserves mention is the Me-Dum-Me-Phi, i.e., the ancestor
worship festival which is observed by the whole Ahom community. This is performed annually on the
31st of January and helps to develop social contacts and community feelings among the Ahoms.
Colourful processions with devotees in traditional finery are also taken out on the occasion.

Baishagu

Famous for its myriad colours and merriment, 'Baishagu' is

generally celebrated by the Bodo Kacharis during mid April. It
is the most cherished festival of the Bodo tribe. The Bodos also
celebrate it as a springtime festival at the advent of the new
year.

Ambubachi Mela
Is the most important festival of Kamakhya temple of Guwahati and is held every year during
monsoon (mid-June). It is a ritual of austerities celebrated with 'Tantric rites'.
During Ambubashi the doors of the temple remain closed for three days. It is believed that the earth
becomes impure for three days. During this time no farming work is undertaken.
Ambubachi mela is held at the Kamakhya temple, after being closed for the afore-mentioned three
days. On the fourth day only the devotees are allowed to enter inside the temple for worship.
Thousands of devotees from all over the country and abroad visit this mela.