Bishu Festival

Bishu is an important festival celebrated by the Dimasa Kachari people on 27thJanuary every year with great pomp and splendor. Celebrated after the completion of harvest, it’s time for thanksgiving to Brai-Sibrai/ Shiva, the supreme God of the Dimasa community for good harvest. So, the new paddy harvest is first offered to Braisibraimadai (God) for the peace of humankind during the festival.

Bishu is derived from the words "Bi", meaning “pray”, and "Shu", meaning asking for peace in life.

Fangsla, an artistically designed gate, is erected at the village entrance for the Bishu and Gajaibao is selected to lead or preside over the festival. It is celebrated in three distinct variations namely Surem Bishu, which is observed for three or five days; Hangseumanaoba Bishu--observed for seven days; and Jidab Bishu--observed for only one day.

Celebration involves consumption of animal and bird meats in the communal feast. During the occasion, beating of kharams (drums) and playing of muri, a traditional wooden bugle/flute continues nonstop for the first three days. It is accompanied by singing and dancing.

Community members--men and women, boys and girls--in traditional dress spend the whole night dancing during the festival. Games like long jump, high jump and stone throw areorganised in front of Nodrangon the last day. Bishugarba is conducted by the Khunang with elders.

The Dimasa community welcomes chief guest and invited guests during any occasion by playing the muri and kharam.

P. Monuhar Thaosen

Former Gen. Secy.

Dimasa Public Organisation, Nagaland.