Bijni Celebrates 135th Sri Sri Lakshmi Puja and Mela with Festivities
Bijni's Grand Festival Kicks Off
Bijni Lakshmi Mandir
Bijni, Oct 25: The vibrant town of Bijni is set to immerse itself in a 14-day celebration filled with devotion, music, and cultural festivities as it inaugurates the 135th Sri Sri Lakshmi Puja and Mela this Sunday, continuing until November 7.
This annual event is believed to have been established under the auspices of Koch king Bijit Narayan.
Over the years, it has evolved into a significant gathering for residents of Bijni and surrounding areas, attracting devotees, merchants, and visitors who come to enjoy a mix of religious rituals, cultural performances, and commercial activities.
Preparations are in full swing at the Lakshmi Temple and surrounding public areas, with organizers extending cultural events until midnight this year, allowing more time for attendees to engage in the celebrations.
The festival flag was raised on Sunday morning, with a formal inauguration planned for 6 pm, featuring Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) Chief Hagrama Mohilary and other notable guests.
“We raised the flag this morning, and Hagrama Mohilary will inaugurate the 14-day event at 6 pm, along with other dignitaries. Starting tomorrow, fairs will take place across three venues, showcasing a trade fair, circus, and various attractions. Cultural events will run until midnight,” stated a member of the organizing committee.
The fairs are anticipated to attract large crowds with their combination of religious practices, cultural showcases, and commercial offerings. The Chirang district administration is backing the event, and the organizing committee plans to deploy volunteers, including women, to assist with crowd management and ensure the festivities run smoothly.
Music will play a central role in the celebrations, featuring competitions that highlight some of Assam’s beloved musical traditions. A Zubeen Sangeet competition, along with a tribute program, is set for November 1 at 8 pm, with prizes including Rs 5,001 and a trophy for the winner, and Rs 3,001 and Rs 2,001 for the second and third places, respectively.
The musical festivities will continue with a Pratima Barua Pandey singing competition on November 2, followed by a Bhupendra Sangeet competition on November 5.
In addition to musical events, the festival will also feature naam performances by women devotees and literary competitions at the Lakshmi Temple, integrating devotional music and literary arts into the broader celebrations.
Now celebrating its 135th year, Bijni’s Lakshmi Puja and Mela stands as a vital community event, uniting religious devotion, Assam’s rich cultural heritage, and the festive spirit of a town ready to welcome visitors for two weeks.