Assam’s largest organised festival, Rongali, is set to take place from June 21st to 23rd at the Veterinary College Ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. Established in 2015, Rongali aims to foster cultural unity and showcase Assamese talents. Over the past seven editions, the festival has become a vital platform for the state’s artists, designers, musicians, models, and entrepreneurs.
The 2024 edition of Rongali will feature a wide array of cultural displays from various Assamese tribes and communities, including the Matak, Maran, Sonowal, Kachari, Tiwa, Koch Rajbongshi, Chutia, Tea Tribes, Rabha, Tai Ahom, Gorkha, Sonowal Bodo, Mising, Karbi, and Dimasa, among others. Approximately 700 folk artists are scheduled to perform, highlighting the rich cultural diversity and historical heritage of these groups.
Chief Organiser Shyamkanu Mahanta emphasised that Rongali is about harmony, creativity, and entrepreneurship. This year’s event will include a “Vocal for Local” exhibition, showcasing Assam’s renowned silk, crafts, tea, bell metal, agricultural and horticultural products, among other items. The festival will also feature the Rongali Entrepreneurship Award, which will honour ten exceptional entrepreneurs from Assam.
Rongali, traditionally held in April and May, was postponed this year due to the election code of conduct. The event seeks to highlight Assam’s appeal during the spring and rainy seasons. It is supported by the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Assam and the Tour Operators Association of Assam, further enhancing its potential to boost local tourism and business.
The festival will also include a major art exhibition, with the Rongali Art Carnival being a significant attraction. Assamese cuisine will be celebrated through a traditional food competition and a multi-cuisine court presenting diverse dishes from across the country.
On June 21st, International Yoga Day, a special yoga session themed “Women Empowerment” will be conducted by J. Tulika and streamed live globally. The Hon’ble Governor of Assam, Gulab Chandra Kataria, will formally inaugurate Rongali on the evening of June 21st.
The Rongali Good Vibes Stage will feature performances by Bollywood sensation Raghav Chaitanya, renowned Telugu music arranger and singer Devi Shri Prasad, top Indian rapper EPR, and leading rock band Nalaayak. Assamese musical talents such as Zubeen Garg, Priyanka Bharali, Deeplina Deka, and others will also perform. A special appearance by Bollywood singer Divya Kumar is also scheduled.
This year marks the introduction of the Rongali Music Awards, which will honour outstanding musical talents from the region. Legendary singer Dwipen Baruah will receive the Rongali Music Award for Lifetime Achievement. Additional awards will be given for the most popular song of the year, best male and female singers, best lyricist, and music arranger.
Rongali will also host a fashion platform, featuring 16 designers from Assam focusing on local handloom designs. The Rongali Hip Hop Village will showcase 150 hip-hop artists from across India.
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On June 22nd, Rongali Music Connect, curated by renowned music entrepreneur Tersame Mittal, will connect local musicians and content creators with top digital and musical experts from India.
Supported by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs, Government of Assam, Rongali will include an extensive exhibition of sculptures and arts, featuring numerous young artists. The Music College will present performances by winners of the Sanskriti Maha Sangram, organised by the Government of Assam, showcasing Jyoti Sangeet, Rabha Sangeet, and more.
Zubeen Garg, the brand ambassador of Rongali, describes the event as a community movement that unites various communities and promotes cultural and economic development in Assam. B. Kalyan Chakraborty, Principal Secretary of Cultural Affairs, highlights Rongali as a cultural movement supporting local talents and encouraging international visitors to experience Assam’s cultural diversity.
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