As Assam winds down from a month-long celebration of Bihu, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday issued a heartfelt appeal to cancel all remaining Bihu functions scheduled from May 10 onwards, calling for a “graceful close” to the state’s most vibrant festival.
In an official statement shared on social media, CM Sarma thanked the people of Assam for their overwhelming participation in the festival, which saw numerous cultural programs across the state.
“Over the past month, we have joyfully celebrated Bihu across Assam. I sincerely thank everyone for their enthusiastic participation and contributions. However, the time has now come to conclude this festive season. I humbly appeal that all remaining Bihu functions scheduled from 10th May onwards be kindly cancelled,” Sarma posted on X.
While no explicit reason was given, the timing of the appeal comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory strikes against terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Security concerns and national sentiment are widely believed to have prompted the request.
Meanwhile, in a powerful show of solidarity, devotees at Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati offered prayers for the Indian Armed Forces on Friday morning. With folded hands and emotional tributes, many prayed for strength and success for the troops engaged in defending the nation.
“We are really proud of the Indian Army for their tremendous work. They should continue this till terrorism is completely eradicated,” said Shantanu Roy, a devotee.
Another devotee, Shumita Roy, prayed for the families of the victims of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 people:
“We pray that Maa Kamakhya gives strength to the families and to those still fighting to eradicate terrorism.”
Emotions ran high as Jai Kumar Das, visibly moved, voiced his anger toward Pakistan:
“Pakistan cannot be trusted. I pray to Maa Kamakhya to give power to the Indian Army. Don’t give us power—give it to those who protect us so that they return safely.”
The region remains tense following multiple drone intrusions and cross-border shelling near civilian areas in Jammu on Thursday night, raising security alerts in other parts of the country as well.
As Assam transitions from celebration to cautious reflection, the Chief Minister’s call has been widely seen as a gesture of national solidarity, aligning with the sentiment of vigilance and unity prevailing across India during this critical time.