After Bihu, Assam Aims for Another Guinness World Record with 10,000 Bagurumba Dancers

Bagurumba is a traditional folk dance performed by the Bodo community, one of Assam’s indigenous groups.

By Pinaki Goswami

After the historic achievement of entering the Guinness Book of World Records with the Bihu dance by 11,010 Bihu dancers or ‘nasonis’ and drummers or ‘dhuliyas’ last year, the Assam Government is now also eyeing to achieve another milestone with Bodo traditional folk dance-Bagurumba before the end of 2025.

However, the exact date for the event is yet to be announced.

The Bodo community’s effort to bring their folk dance onto the global stage is a testament to the state’s commitment to promoting its diverse cultural heritage. With an expected participation of 10,000 dancers, this grand event will not only break records but also highlight Assam’s rich traditions on an international platform.

The Significance of Bagurumba Dance

Bagurumba is a traditional folk dance performed by the Bodo community, one of Assam’s indigenous groups. This dance form is deeply embedded in the cultural identity of the Bodo people and serves as a celebration of nature, harmony, and spirituality.

The Name and Its Symbolism
The term “Bagurumba” originates from two Bodo words: “Bagu,” meaning bird, and “Rumba,” meaning dance. This translates to “Dance of Birds,” perfectly encapsulating the fluid and graceful movements of the performers. Often referred to as the “Butterfly Dance,” Bagurumba reflects the delicate fluttering of butterfly wings and the gentle sway of birds in flight.

Traditional Attire and Performers

The dance is exclusively performed by Bodo women, who adorn themselves in traditional attire that includes:

Dokkha: A handwoven cloth draped around the body.
Jwmgra (Fasra): A wraparound skirt with intricate designs showcasing Bodo weaving artistry.
Aronai: A vibrant shoulder cloth, that adds elegance and cultural significance.

Dance Movements and Their Representation
Bagurumba is characterized by synchronized, slow, and flowing movements that mimic the grace of birds and butterflies. The dance is a homage to nature, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and unity. The dancers move rhythmically, their steps harmonizing with the beats of traditional instruments, evoking a deep connection with the environment.

Traditional Musical Accompaniment
Bagurumba performances are accompanied by various traditional Bodo instruments, played primarily by male musicians. These include:
Kham: A long cylindrical drum with deep, resonant sounds, providing the dance’s rhythmic foundation.
Sifung: A bamboo flute producing melodious and soothing tunes.
Jota: A small metal percussion instrument that adds sharp beats to the rhythm.
Serja: A bowed string instrument resembling a violin, adding emotional depth to the music.
Gongwna: A bamboo-made instrument emitting a resonating sound.
Tharkha: A split bamboo percussion instrument that creates a rhythmic clapping sound.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

Bagurumba is not just a dance but a cultural treasure of the Bodo people. It is performed during festivals such as Bihu and harvest celebrations, reinforcing the tribe’s connection to nature. The dance conveys themes of growth, renewal, and gratitude for the land’s bounty. It also serves as a means of preserving and transmitting cultural values to future generations.

Assam is also gearing up for a historic mass singing of the Assam State Anthem, “O Mur Apunar Dexh,” with 1 crore people participating before the end of 2025, said CM Himanta Biswa Sarma.

Also Read: Here’s All You Need to Know About Jhumur Dance Before the Historic Performance ‘Jhumoir Bandini’ on Feb 24 in Guwahati

COMMENTS