Guwahati — The rush of the election season has not dampened Rongali Bihu festivities in Assam; instead, candidates and election officials are weaving Bihu performances into voter outreach across the state. In several districts, including Lakhimpur, Bihu troupes are being used to spread voter-awareness messages and encourage higher turnout, while candidates from the Brahmaputra Valley have been appearing alongside performers on the campaign trail.
In Lakhimpur, authorities organised Bihu-themed awareness drives in low-turnout areas, sending young girls to perform in selected localities with messages about the importance of voting. The district administration posted on social media: “As the beats of Bihu echo through every corner, let the message spread louder — Your Vote, Your Voice, Your Power. Celebrate culture, strengthen democracy.”
BJP candidate and sitting MLA Manab Deka was seen dancing with Bihu performers during a campaign stop in the Boginodi area. As the dhol played, women dancers gathered around Deka and his supporters and the group broke into celebratory steps. “People are welcoming our campaign team with Bihu songs and dance as Rongali Bihu is fast approaching,” he said.
Assam Jatiya Parishad president and opposition alliance candidate from Khowang, Lurinjyoti Gogoi, has also frequently been seen joining Bihu performances during his rallies in upper Assam. Lurinjyoti said local committees arranged the performances to welcome him, calling them a reflection of genuine public support, and added that the dancers were not paid for their appearances.
In Rangia, Congress candidate Pranjit Choudhury took part in a Bihu workshop with children and was photographed playing the dhol as they rehearsed. Choudhury said Bihu “runs in the blood of Assamese people” and described his presence as support for children who will preserve Assamese culture, while denying any intent to exploit the festival for political gain.
The blending of Rongali Bihu with election outreach highlights how Assam’s cultural traditions are being used as a vehicle for civic engagement, even as candidates juggle hectic campaign schedules. The approach underscores local leaders’ efforts to combine festival spirit with voter mobilisation across the Brahmaputra Valley.
Original Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/guwahati/bihu-beats-add-festive-twist-to-hectic-poll-roster/articleshow/129934985.cms
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Publish Date: 2026-04-01 00:03:00
