Papu Baruah & Naba Kumar Bharali, Dhakuakhana: The tranquil banks of the Charikodiya River in Mohghuli Chapori are set to come alive as the historic Phatobihu festival begins tomorrow, May 9, bringing with it a celebration of culture, tradition, and unity that has spanned centuries. The three-day festival, which will continue until May 11, is one of the most significant cultural events in the Dhakuakhana region of Lakhimpur district. Phatobihu is not just a festival—it is a living legacy that dates back to the 16th century, when the area served as a gathering place for trade and tax collection during the rule of the Ahom kings. The word “Phat” refers to a riverside location where such economic activities occurred. Over time, what began as a formal reception for royal officials transformed into a people’s celebration, marked by music, dance, and communal harmony. Eventually, this unique tradition evolved into what is now known as Phatobihu. This year’s festival, organised by the Phatobihu Udjapan Somity under the guidance of the Phatobihu Somity, is expected to draw thousands of people from across the region. The organisers have curated a vibrant lineup of cultural programmes that blend traditional Bihu competitions with tree plantation drives, community forums, and the release of the annual souvenir “Bihuwan.” Celebrated in the Assamese month of Bohag, Phatobihu takes place on the last Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the month and brings together people of all castes, communities, and tribes in a display of shared heritage and mutual respect. The cultural fervour will reach its peak on the final day, May 11, with a grand cultural rally and closing ceremony featuring performances, speeches, and appearances by notable dignitaries including ministers, artists, folklorists, and cultural leaders. Actress and dancer Megharanjani Medhi will inaugurate the cultural rally, while the closing ceremony will be graced by prominent figures such as Ministers Bimal Bora and Dr. Ranoj Pegu, MLA Naba Kumar Doley, and AASU President Utpal Sharma. As Mohghuli Chapori prepares to host this colourful celebration, the spirit of Phatobihu continues to echo across generations—reminding all of a time when even a tax collection day could blossom into a joyful tradition of community, resilience, and pride- stated in a press release by Naba Kumar Bharali, In-charge, Phatobihu Public Information & Website Management Cell.
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