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Kati Bihu

Welcome Kati Bihu with joy! Join us to celebrate this Assamese festival that embodies community, harvest blessings, and nature's bounty.

Sunday

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEKati Bihu (1st of Kartik, Assam)

OBSERVED INIndia

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYAsian Heritage

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get your soul ready for the enchanting celebration of Kati Bihu on October 17! This cultural festival holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Assam, India, who celebrate it with immense enthusiasm. Started centuries ago as a mark of respect and gratefulness towards nature and its plenty, Kati Bihu has now become a vibrant part of Assam's rich heritage. As the paddy fields sway to the rhythms of the "pepa" and "dhol," the glimmering oil lamps light up the magical spirit of camaraderie and community. So, let's delve into the charm of Kati Bihu, a joyous celebration of life, community, and nature's bounty!

TIMELINE

Kati Bihu Timeline

Origins of Kati Bihu

Kati Bihu, also known as Kongali Bihu, is said to have originated during the Ahom rule in Assam, marking an important phase in the agricultural cycle.

First Written Record

Scottish explorer and writer Alexander Cunningham mentions Bihu, including Kati Bihu, in his book "Coins of Medieval Assam".

Recognition Beyond Assam

Kati Bihu began to be recognized outside Assam as Indian ethnographers and historians started researching and documenting diverse cultural practices.

National Integration

The Festival of India initiative highlighted Kati Bihu among other regional festivities to promote national integration and cultural exchange.

Modern Celebrations

With an increased focus on eco-friendly practices, modern Kati Bihu celebrations often include mud lamps instead of electric lights, reviving traditional aspects.

Covid-19 Impact

Despite the pandemic's challenges, Assamese worldwide creatively adapted their celebrations while maintaining Kati Bihu's spirit on October 17, 2021.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Kati Bihu

Light up your home

Take part in the tradition of illuminating each corner of your house with earthen oil lamps. These lamps, also known as saki, are symbolic of driving away the darkness and welcoming prosperity and good luck.

TRY

Try traditional Assamese cuisine

Use this festival as an opportunity to prepare and try traditional Assamese dishes including 'pitha' and ‘laru’. This can be a fun and delicious way to engage with the culinary tradition of Kati Bihu.

JOIN

Join a cultural performance

Become part of the vibrant celebrations by joining in traditional dances and songs that are performed on this day. If possible, learn some traditional Assamese music and dance forms like Bihu dance to perform.

GET

Get involved in community activities

Local communities often host various events for Kati Bihu such as paddy field tours, group prayers and community meals. Participating in these activities is a wonderful way to feel the spirit of Kati Bihu.

PAY

Pay homage to nature

Often, people pay homage to nature during Kati Bihu by offering prayers in their fields hoping for a good harvest. You can embrace this tradition by visiting a local farm or spending time in nature, expressing gratitude for the earth's bounty.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Kati Bihu is Important

It promotes cultural heritage

Kati Bihu offers a beautiful glimpse into Assamese culture. It allows participants to engage with traditional Assamese cuisine, music, and dance, thus promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region. This opportunity to dive into cultural traditions is another reason why Kati Bihu is greatly loved and celebrated.

It celebrates the spirit of community

Kati Bihu is a festival that brings people together. It fosters a strong community spirit as everyone comes together to participate in the celebrations, from lighting up homes and joining cultural performances to taking part in community activities. This shared sense of celebration and togetherness makes Kati Bihu a truly beloved festival.

It embodies gratitude and hope

At the heart of Kati Bihu is a profound sense of gratitude towards nature and its bounty, as well as hope for a good harvest. The tradition of offering prayers in the fields and lighting up homes with earthen lamps symbolises a heartfelt thanksgiving and a hopeful anticipation for prosperity. This resonates with many, making Kati Bihu a meaningful celebration.