Dispur: The Bagurumba is a traditional dance in North East India, which is especially performed in Assam. This vibrant traditional dance is also known as the butterfly dance because it is a personification
of the movements of butterflies and birds. The cultural landscape of Assam witnessed the Bagurumba dance on Saturday evening, January 17, 2026, in Guwahati's Sarusajai Stadium. Approximately 10,00 artist participated created an unforgettable experience with their synchronised performance, which left thousands of spectators mesmerised. Here's to know everything about Assam's traditional, vibrant cultural festival.
About the Bagurumba dance: A folk dance inspired by nature
Assam's Bagurumba dance is the heart of Bodo cultural identity. This dance is traditionally performed by women during the Bodo New Year Festival, Bwisagu. The Bagurmba dance, which passed down for generations, symbolises harmony and renewal. The dance is accompanied by handmade instruments such as the Kham, which is made up of a long cylindrical drum made out of wood and animal skin.
The traditional dance also features sifung (flute, carved out of bamboo), jota (made of iron), serja (a bowed instrument, made of wood and animal skin), and gongwna (made of bamboo), tharkha (a piece of split bamboo). The folk dance, which is inspired by nature, represents peace, fertility, joy, and harmony, featuring flowing movements that imitate butterflies, leaves, and flowers.
Performances are usually organised in groups forming circles or lines that enhance their visual elegance. The dancers often dress in red, yellow, and green-coloured Dokhna, Aronai, and Jwmgra, and dance to the beautiful beats of the traditional handmade percussion instrument.
PM Modi participated in the historic performance of the Bagurumba dance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Assam on a two-day visit, witnessed the historic performance of the Bagurumba dance at Arjun Bhogeshwar Baruah Sports complex in Sarusajai, in the presence of Governor Lakshman Prasad Acaharya, Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, BTC CEM Hagrama Mohilary, and other dignitaries. PM Modi also shared a video of the Bagurumba dance on his social media account on X (formerly Twitter) and captioned, "A spectacular Bagurumba dance performance in Guwahati!"
Why is the Bagurumba dance performed on January 17?
The Bagurumba dance was performed in Guwahati on January 17, 2026, as a massive cultural event called Bagurumba Dhwou. The dance was performed to showcase Bodo culture and unity. The festival was organised by the Assam government to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Bodo community. The festival featured the participation of more than 10,000 artistes from 81 assembly constituencies across 23 districts of the state.
