Gorkha community marks first public Teej festival in Lampi

Guwahati: Women in Lower Lampi celebrated the traditional Teej festival in public for the first time. The Lampi Regional Gorkha Women’s Committee organized the day-long event in the hilly border region of the Boko-Chaygaon constituency. Attendees wore traditional Gorkha dress while taking part in songs, dances, and games like tug-of-war and kabaddi.

Arjun Chhetri of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council served as the chief guest alongside Jongakhuli Panchayat president Unnati Chhetri. Chhetri explained that married women observe the fast to ensure the health and longevity of their husbands. Unmarried women joined in hopes of securing a good life partner.

Unnati Chhetri emphasized the social importance of the gathering. "Teej goes beyond religious observance and serves as a platform for women’s solidarity, cultural unity and preservation of traditional heritage," she said. The festival honors the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

Locals also spent the day applying mehendi and performing cultural routines. The event highlights traditions practiced across Nepal and Indian states including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Sikkim. Organizers focused on passing these customs down to younger generations while strengthening local ties.