Products of painstaking research, the first-named titled is a compilation of Bihu dance and songs, besides customs associated with the festival. Thought-provoking aspects involving staging of Bihu sanmilans have also been discussed. The second book is incidentally the third edition printed on demand, and is a critical study of Bihu songs and dance.

Adopting a social research approach, Bihu Binandiya, which is priced at Rs 100 only, contains 228 views against 22 posers involving Bihu dance, songs and venue of bihutolis. Encapsulating reaction of cultural observers, experienced social thinkers and prominent Bihu judges spread across 13 districts of the State. The topics under reference are discussed threadbare so that they may prick the readers’ conscience and provide ample food for thought.

Additionally, “as the book touches upon popular tradition, customs and rituals associated with all the three Bihus, participants at bihutolis, including judges and organisers, and even students, if not others, are likely to benefit from the information contained therein”, remarked several speakers at the function. “The deliberations are reformatory in outlook and buttressed by pragmatic thinking”, they agreed.

Providing insight into rituals associated with the festival, which is so dear to the masses, the third edition of Rongali Bihur Nritya Geet commands a price of Rs 60 only. “It is widely used as a handbook by connoisseurs at bihutolis”, the author told this newspaper.

Published by Abhinab Sahitya Prakash of Kushal Konwar Path here, Bihu Binandiya was released by Dr Basanta Goswami, who was former general secretary of the Asam Sahitya Sabha, besides being a noted author-cum-educationist. Rongali Bihur Nritya Geet was similarly released by Dr Akhil Chakraborty, who was former secretary of the Asom Natya Sanimilan, besides being a well-known dramatist and cine director. The function was presided over by Banikanta Baruah, who is president of Abhinab Sahitya Prakash, besides being a writer of repute.

It may perhaps not be out of place to mention here that the aforementioned books have not been released for sale at commercial outlets, but may be availed by ringing up 9954217631, or vide money order addressed to: Prerona”, warden, Brahmaputra Hostel, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-13, a fact-sheet mentioned.

(The Assam Tribune,11.04.2006)