This PowerPoint presentation, Bihu: A Living Intangible Cultural Heritage of Assam, presents Bihu not merely as a seasonal celebration but as a dynamic, living cultural system deeply rooted in Assam’s agrarian, ecological, and social life. The presentation was delivered at the National Symposium on Living Heritage, held during the 20th Session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (New Delhi, 12 December 2025).
The presentation situates Bihu within Assam’s traditional worldview, explaining its three seasonal forms—Bohag, Kati, and Magh Bihu—as cultural markers of sowing, growth, and harvest. It further aligns Bihu with UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage domains, highlighting its continuous transmission through performance, ritual practices, oral traditions, and traditional craftsmanship.
Special attention is given to Bihu as a living tradition sustained through dance, songs, musical instruments, and everyday community practices. The presentation also emphasizes Bihu’s inclusive nature, shared across diverse ethnic communities of Assam and connected to broader South and Southeast Asian cultural continuities. The crucial role of women in safeguarding rituals, textiles, songs, and festive knowledge is distinctly highlighted.
In addition, the presentation addresses community-based safeguarding practices, emerging challenges to continuity, and the vibrant economic ecosystem generated by Bihu—supporting artisans, weavers, musicians, rural markets, and local livelihoods. It concludes with a forward-looking vision for UNESCO ICH recognition through documentation, digital archiving, and sustainable cultural tourism.
The
final section acknowledges the pioneering role of ICOMOS India – North East Zone in advancing scholarly research and
global advocacy for Bihu. Overall, the presentation seeks to foster deeper
understanding, responsible safeguarding, and collective pride in Bihu as a
living heritage of humanity.
Speech: https://youtu.be/zUs_GzSjYes
Interview after the speech: https://youtu.be/74uVnEMi6Dw
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