The festive spirit of Bohag Bihu resonated in the skies as a video surfaced depicting cadres of the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) celebrating the cherished Assamese festival in Myanmar.
In the video, members of the rebel group were captured singing traditional ‘Husori’ songs and partaking in the joyous festivities dressed in camouflage trousers, silk kurtas, and adorned with traditional Assamese gamochas. Amidst the backdrop of traditional folk music, complete with dhol, pepa, and gogona, masked cadres were seen dancing in a circle, exuding cheer and enthusiasm.
The ‘Husori’ rendition by the militant group included poignant lines appealing to mothers not to feel sadness but to bless them in their fight for ‘independence’ from external forces, reflecting the group’s ideological stance.
This is not the first instance of ULFA-I cadres sharing videos of their participation in Assamese festivals. Earlier, the rebel group had shared footage of their celebrations during Magh Bihu, showcasing their engagement in the vibrant cultural traditions of Assam.
The emergence of such videos underscores the cultural significance of festivals like Bohag Bihu even amidst the backdrop of armed conflict, highlighting the resilience and enduring spirit of Assamese culture.