Image from Bodoland Festival.
Bodoland Mahotsav was first organized in Delhi. In this event, the rich cultural heritage of Northeast India was presented on the national stage. At this event held on November 15 and 16, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed over 5,000 Bodo youth. He praised the cultural heritage and contribution of the Bodo community and described it as an important part of India’s collective cultural wealth. This festival was not only a cultural festival but also turned out to be a symbol of national unity and inclusion.
The festival showcased the rich traditions, art, literature, music and cuisine of Bodoland. During this period, the economic potential of the region was also highlighted by textile and silk products receiving the Geographical Indication (GI TAG) of the Bodoland region. Not only this, the 73rd anniversary of Bodo Sahitya Sabha was also one of the main attractions of the festival. The event bridged the geographical and cultural distance between the Northeast and Delhi and conveyed the message that the Bodo community is an integral part of India’s national pride.
Cultural trip from Rajghat to India Gate
During the festival, a cultural march was held from Rajghat to India Gate, in which the Bodo community showcased their traditions through music, dance and other cultural programmes. This trip was not only a showcase of cultural heritage but was also a powerful medium to express the feeling of unity in the diversity of India. It inspired all participants by reflecting national progress and collective culture.
Image from Bodoland Festival.
A look at the Bodo Peace Agreement
The festival is also a result of the 2020 Bodo Peace Agreement led by the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). Under the leadership of Pramod Bodo, this agreement is ending decades of insurgency and paving the way for the economic and cultural revival of the region. The festival paid homage to Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, whose “live and let live” philosophy laid the foundation for a peaceful transformation in the region.
Image from Bodoland Festival.
Prime Minister’s Message and National Importance
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need to preserve the Bodo language and culture at the festival. He described it as an invaluable part of India’s multilingual and multicultural heritage. The festival made it clear that the northeastern region of India is no longer just a geographically remote area, but has become an integral part of the country’s mainstream.
