Why is in news? Prime Minister extends best wishes on the auspicious occasion of Kati Bihto the people of Assam
Kati Bihu, also known as Kongali Bihu, is a unique festival observed in India's North-Eastern state of Assam.
It usually falls in the middle of October and is celebrated with a somber flavour.
There is less merriment amongst the observing folks — as the festival is all about the constraining conditions of the month.
Kati Bihis celebrated on the first day of the ‘Kati’ month in the Assamese calendar — usually falling somewhere in mid-October. This year, it is observed on October 18.
The festival marks the relocation of the rice crop and the beginning of the fresh harvest season.
Kati Bihis an observation of service, penance, and the hope for a better future.
The festival is celebrated across the state of Assam — although all Assamese tribes have their own rituals and interpretations of the day.
Lamps are lit outside the homes, and a pathway of bamboos is constructed as a trail for the ancestors.
Kati Bihis one of the three most significant festivals of the Assamese people — including Bhogali Bihand Rongali Bihu.
Kati Bihis celebrated with great sincerity by the entire state.
It is one of the few unique festivals of India which surpasses religion, social status, and caste, as people from all walks of life come together and observes the solemnity of their conditions.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
