Chandubi Festival Celebrates Culture and Environmental Awareness

Chandubi Festival Concludes with Cultural Celebrations

Chandubi, Jan 6: The 16th edition of the Chandubi Festival, which commenced on January 1, wrapped up today after five days of vibrant celebrations, culminating in a traditional bonfire that symbolizes the festival's deep-rooted connection to indigenous culture and environmental consciousness.

The festival grounds were alive with the sounds of traditional instruments like maadal, kham-peti, dhol, pepa, and gogona, attracting large crowds daily. The picturesque Chandubi wetland, adorned with blooming water lilies, created a stunning backdrop under the misty skies.

Attendees engaged in various cultural activities, savored local cuisine, and enjoyed boat rides on Chandubi Beel, all while celebrating in harmony with nature.

Organized collaboratively by the Barduar-Bholagaon Anchalik Rabha Students’ Union and the Chandubi Festival Celebration Committee, the event also received support from the Borduwar-Bholagaon Regional Mahila Parishad and the Regional Sixth Schedule Demand Committee.

On the fourth day, Dr. Purnima Devi Barman, a Green Oscar award-winning biologist and leader of the Hargila conservation movement, along with Jitul Rabha, an Adi Sathi awardee and regional panchayat member, were honored for their significant contributions.

Dr. Barman emphasized the importance of environmental conservation, stating that humans are an integral part of nature and must adhere to its principles. She advocated for early environmental education and urged the public to eliminate plastic usage due to its detrimental effects on health and the environment.

Sonaram Rabha, chairman of the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council, highlighted the council's commitment to safeguarding Chandubi. He noted that the festival, now in its 16th year, was established to maintain the wetland's natural beauty and has been pivotal in preserving the region's biodiversity.

Motilal Rabha, president of the All Rabha Students’ Union, recognized Chandubi as a key tourism spot and called for increased governmental responsibility in its protection. He reiterated the demand for Sixth Schedule status for Rabha Hasong, asserting that it would protect the interests of all local communities.

During a book release event, local MLA Hemanga Thakuria referred to Chandubi as one of the world's historically significant lakes, formed by the 1897 earthquake. He stressed the need to promote Chandubi while preserving its ecological and cultural heritage.