Guwahati: The 16th annual Baikho Puja brought the Rabha community together at Baikho Hadam in Boko on Sunday, June 14. The day-long festival celebrated cultural heritage through a series of traditional rituals, performances, and community competitions.
Organized by the Boko Regional All Rabha Students Union, the Rabha Women Council, and the Sixth Schedule Demand Committee, the event began with flag hoisting and a tree plantation drive. Baibra priests from Dayrong traveled to the site to conduct religious ceremonies, which included traditional animal sacrifices to the deities.
The festival served as a platform for cultural preservation in an era of changing social landscapes. Boko ARSU president Dibya Rabha emphasized the importance of these gatherings, stating, "the event is aimed at preserving Rabha traditions and cultural identity amid the growing influence of modernity and western culture, while ensuring their continuity for future generations."
Festivities included the Bohurongi dance competition featuring thirteen teams, with the Khenapara team taking first place. Attendees also participated in a tug-of-war tournament, where winners received cash prizes. Highlights of the day featured ritualistic performances known as Killabhanga and the fire test dance, performed by the Baibra priests for the crowd.
Kamrup District ARSU president Anand Rabha noted that the puja is traditionally held to protect the community from disease and misfortune while encouraging a successful harvest. Dignitaries including Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council chairman Sonaram Rabha attended the event, which was managed by committee leaders Manoranjan Rabha and Bipindra Rabha.
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