About Phatobihu

From 16th Century onwards, on the bank of the river Charikodiya, a gathering known as the “Phatobihu” is being celebrated annually, till date. For convenience it is now celebrated on the month of “Bohag” (of Assamese Calendar) and the dates are considered according to the last Friday, Saturday & Sunday of the month. This is now regarded as the largest traditional auspicious occasion of Dhakuakhana, Lakhimpur District of Assam. The immense beauty on the bank of the river where the occasion takes place could, none other than the “Mohghuli Chapori”, an area where nature has its own wonderful way to express its wonder with tall trees, green grass and soft cool breeze blowing away the dark shades of everybody’s life. Phtobihu is a platform for all to be bound with the same threads of love, brotherhood and equality irrespective of caste, creed and religion since the Ahoms ruled the place. Thus, it possess some specific characteristic and significance of its own although “Bihu” is celebrated all over as in Dhakuakhana in the same way.

History of Phatobihu

There is no written history about “Phatobihu”, and so there is no definite evidence, that describes best, traditional festival. But people residing in this region has been holding this occasion as a means of cultural investigation programme.

Transform With Time

Previously Phatobihu was confined with small tribal and non tribal communities only. Later on it came out to be celebrated regionally. In 1918 Phatobihu had a halt in its celebration due to India’s freedom movement. People who previously dominated to sing and dance in the festival, disagreed to participate. Later towards the end of the 20th century, Phatobihu again regained their rhythm with some happiness and merry making. In 1976, Phatobihu was officially organized in Dhakuakhana Govt. M.E. School field. From 1996, Phatobihu came to their own traditional field in “Mohghuli Chapori” to regain their long lost vigour and charm.

Origin of Phatobihu

According to Tai language “Phat” means – A place beside a river or some deep water bounded area where goods are exchanged for trade and tax collected. According to Ahom Lexicans, “Phat” means – A place where traders assemble for trade and for the payment of duty. Legendarily speaking, there are many takes related to Phatobihu. But one such tales that still counts is worth mentioning. During the Ahom rule, a vast area was under the control of the Ahom rulers. Both the North & South bank of the river Brahmaputra was occupied by them. So, accordingly, the officials from the court representing the Ahom rulers gave a visit in this region annually. As an easy means of communication, they travelled along the water ways by the river Brahmaputra and the sub-rivers and reached this land. To mark their visit, the people organized a grand welcome for the officials with great enthusiasm. The common people eagerly came out to pay their taxes to these officials thereby organized cultural events for their entertainment. It was a 7 days process and so the people from different castes and communities exhibited their own cultural songs and dance forms. The whole region was indeed transformed into a place for “merry-making and joy”. Happiness reigned over the region. Although the sole reason for this gathering was “to pay taxes” yet it was dominated by the festive mood of the commoners and thus ““Phat”” was transformed into “Phatobihu” in course of time.