Bathou Puja 2026: Bodo-Kachari Communities Celebrate Sacred Festival in Assam Today | Significance, Rituals & Traditions
Guwahati/Nazira, Assam – January 27, 2026 – Today marks the vibrant celebration of Bathou Puja, one of the most revered religious festivals among the Bodo and Kachari communities in Assam. Observed with immense devotion and enthusiasm across Bodo-dominated regions like Kokrajhar, Udalguri, Baksa, and Chirang, this ancient Bodo festival honors Bathou, the supreme folk deity revered as the creator and protector.
Bathou Puja, rooted in Bathouism—the ethnic religion of the Bodo-Kachari people—is typically held twice a year. The Bodo community views Bathou as their paramount deity, with profound similarities to Lord Shiva in Hinduism, often regarding Shiva as their divine father. This sacred connection blends indigenous beliefs with broader spiritual traditions, emphasizing harmony with nature and the five elements: air, fire, earth, water, and ether.
The main rituals of Bathou Puja unfold at a specially prepared altar. Devotees join branches of the sacred Siju tree (Euphorbia) and Tulsi plant, sprinkle holy peace water, and plant them together at the Bathou altar. A round stone and a chicken egg are placed at the base of the Siju tree, symbolizing offerings to invoke the deity’s blessings. Traditional offerings include rice beer (sura) and meat (naivedya), followed by fervent prayers for peace, prosperity, protection, and community well-being.
This festival is more than a religious observance—it is a celebration of cultural identity, ancestral reverence, and the unbreakable bond between the Bodo-Kachari people and nature. In recent years, the Assam government has recognized its importance by declaring Bathou Puja a state holiday, further promoting tribal heritage and inclusivity.
On this auspicious occasion of Bathou Puja 2026, heartfelt greetings and best wishes are extended to the entire Bodo-Kachari community. May Bathou shower blessings of harmony, abundance, and continued cultural pride upon all devotees.
Stay tuned for more updates on Assam’s rich festivals, tribal traditions, and cultural events. Share your Bathou Puja experiences in the comments below!
