Kati Bihu

Kati Bihu, also known as Kongali Bihu, is an important festival celebrated by the Assamese people to mark the beginning of the Kati month in the Assamese calendar and an important stage in the agricultural cycle. Unlike the other Bihu festivals, Kati Bihu is a quiet and reflective observance centered on prayers for healthy crops, prosperity, and protection of the growing rice fields.

History of Kati Bihu

Kati Bihu is one of the three major Bihu festivals of Assam, together with Rongali (Bohag) Bihu and Bhogali (Magh) Bihu. It takes place when rice plants are growing in the fields but before the harvest, a time when food supplies were traditionally limited. For this reason, it is also known as Kongali Bihu, meaning the “poor” or “austere” Bihu. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

One of the festival’s most recognizable traditions is lighting earthen lamps called saaki near the sacred Tulsi plant, in granaries, and in rice fields. Farmers also place Akaxh Banti (sky lamps) on tall bamboo poles, believing they protect the crops while also serving the practical purpose of attracting insects away from the rice plants. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Interesting Facts About Kati Bihu

• Kati Bihu is also known as Kongali Bihu because it falls during a time when traditional household granaries were nearly empty.
• Earthen lamps are lit near the Tulsi plant and in paddy fields as symbols of hope, protection, and prayers for a successful harvest.
• Akaxh Banti lamps are traditionally placed on tall bamboo poles overlooking the fields.
• Unlike the lively celebrations of Rongali and Bhogali Bihu, Kati Bihu is observed with simplicity, prayer, and reflection.

How Kati Bihu Is Observed

Families clean and decorate the area around the household Tulsi plant before lighting traditional clay lamps and offering prayers for the well-being of the family and a plentiful harvest. Farmers also light lamps in their fields and continue agricultural rituals throughout the Kati month.

Visitors can respectfully observe the festival by learning about Assamese culture, attending local community celebrations, or exploring the traditions surrounding the three Bihu festivals. As with any cultural observance, local customs and religious practices should be respected.

When Is Kati Bihu in 2026?

Kati Bihu is observed on the first day of the Kati month in the Assamese calendar.

Observations