Bhubaneswar: Assam witnessed a landmark cultural moment with the grand staging of Bagurumba Dwhou 2026, a historic celebration of the Bodo community’s iconic Bagurumba, or butterfly dance. Held at Guwahati’s Sarusajai Stadium, the event brought together more than 10,000 Bodo artistes from all 81 Assembly constituencies across 23 districts, creating one of the largest synchronised performances of indigenous culture ever seen in the state.
The spectacular mass performance placed Assam’s rich folk heritage firmly in the national spotlight. Bagurumba, a traditional dance of the Bodo people, is deeply rooted in nature, with graceful movements inspired by butterflies, birds, flowers and leaves. Traditionally performed by Bodo women in colourful attire and accompanied by instruments such as the kham, serja and flute, the dance symbolises peace, joy, fertility and collective harmony. The sheer scale and precision of the 2026 performance elevated this centuries-old tradition into a defining cultural milestone.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the event alongside Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and senior national and state leaders, lending national prominence to the celebration. Their presence underscored the growing emphasis on recognising, preserving and promoting India’s indigenous cultures at the highest level.
Beyond its record-setting dimensions, Bagurumba Dwhou 2026 reflected Assam’s broader narrative of cultural resurgence, unity and renewed confidence. The event showcased the vibrant identity of the Bodo community while reaffirming the state’s commitment to safeguarding traditional art forms. By blending tradition with collective participation on an unprecedented scale, Assam delivered a powerful statement of cultural pride and inclusivity.
-OdishaAge
