After Bihu and Jhumoir, Assam Gears Up for Record-Breaking Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla Performance in Guwahati This November

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

After the grand success of the Guinness World Record-setting Bihu and Jhumoir performances earlier this year, Assam is once again preparing to make cultural history with Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla performances in Guwahati this November.

This mega-cultural event is expected to feature over 10,000 dancers, showcasing the rich heritage of the Bodo community on a global stage.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the grand cultural event, saying “Get ready to witness the largest ever Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla performance, this November, in Guwahati.
We are committed to taking our vibrant culture to the global stage.
After the super successful Bihu and Jhumoir performances, it’s now time for Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla.”

Get ready to witness the largest ever Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla performance, this November, in Guwahati.

We are committed to take our vibrant culture to the global stage.

After the super successful Bihu and Jhumoir performances, it's now time for Bagurumba and Bardwisikhla. pic.twitter.com/RXCH7OlwM0

— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) June 26, 2025

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. gurumba 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.

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