Introduction:
Bihu dance is a traditional folk dance of Assam, a state located in the northeastern region of India. It is performed during the Bihu festival, which is a celebration of the agricultural cycle and the changing seasons. Bihu dance is characterized by its energetic and rhythmic movements, performed to the accompaniment of traditional Assamese music.
In 2023, a new world record was set for the largest Bihu dance performance, More than 11,000 performers, including drummers and dancers, participated at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati in the State Government's bid to register its world record in the Guinness Book. and was organized by the Assam government and various cultural organizations. The record was set on April 13 at around 5.30 pm at the Saroshjai Stadium in Guwahati.
History of Bihu Dance:
The origin of Bihu dance can be traced back to ancient times, when it was performed by the agricultural communities of Assam to celebrate the harvesting season. Over time, Bihu dance evolved into a popular form of entertainment and a way to express cultural identity. It is now performed on various occasions, including weddings, cultural events, and festivals.
The dance is typically performed by a group of men and women, who move in a circular formation and perform synchronized steps and movements. The dancers wear traditional Assamese attire, which includes colorful skirts, scarves, and headgear.
The Music of Bihu Dance:
Bihu dance is accompanied by traditional Assamese music, During the event, the performers included singers and those playing state's traditional instruments such as Dhol, Taal, Gogona, Toka, Pepa, and Xutuli, among others. The dhol is a large drum that provides the beat for the dance, while the pepa is a wind instrument made from buffalo horn. The taal is a cymbal-like instrument that is played to add a rhythmic element to the music.
The music of Bihu dance is characterized by its fast tempo and energetic rhythm, which is meant to reflect the joy and enthusiasm of the dancers. The lyrics of the songs typically revolve around themes of love, nature, and rural life.
The World Record Event:
The world record event was set on April 13 at around 5.30 pm at the Saroshjai Stadium in Guwahati. The event was organized by the Assam government and various cultural organizations, and was attended by thousands of people from across the state.
Over 11,000 dancers participated in the event, forming a massive circle in the middle of a large field. The dancers were divided into groups based on age and gender, with each group wearing a different color of traditional Assamese attire.
The dance began with the playing of traditional Assamese music, which signaled the start of the performance. The dancers then began to move in unison, performing synchronized steps and movements that were both graceful and energetic.
As the dance continued, the tempo of the music gradually increased, and the dancers began to move faster and with more intensity. The atmosphere was electric, with the audience cheering and clapping along with the music.
The event lasted for over an hour, with the dancers displaying incredible stamina and energy throughout the entire performance. As the dance came to a close, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, celebrating the achievement of a new world record.
The Significance of the Event:
The world record event for the largest Bihu dance performance was significant for several reasons. Firstly, it was a testament to the cultural heritage and identity of Assam, which has a rich history of traditional folk art forms.
Secondly, it was an opportunity to showcase the beauty and diversity of Indian culture to the world. Bihu dance is just one of many traditional dance forms that exist in India, and the event highlighted the richness and variety of these art forms.
Finally, the event was an important milestone in the history of dance, demonstrating the power of collective action and the ability of people to come together to achieve a common goal.
