October 18, 2021: Today is the auspicious day of Kongali Bihu, also called Kati Bihu in Assam.
Kati Bihu marks an important day for the Assamese people as they celebrate it by lighting earthen lamps called ‘saki’ (diya) in paddy fields and in front of Tulsi plants (sacred basil) at home and the granary praying for a good harvest.
To protect the maturing paddy, cultivators whirl a piece of bamboo and emanate spells to ward off pests and the evil eye.
Kati Bihu is one of the three Bihus celebrated by Assamese people. Least of celebrations take place in Kati Bihu as the harvest is still not ready and the granaries of most rural household are empty.