Bizhu Festival traditional New Year in Bangladesh

The Chakma people in Bangladesh and India commemorate the Bizu festival as their customary New Year's Day, which occurs on either the 13th or 14th of April annually.

Bizhu Festival

Bizhu is a significant festival for the Chakmas, lasting for three days, that celebrates the beginning of a new year. It coincides with the Chaitra-sankranti, the final day of the Bengali calendar, and the festivities continue for three days starting from this day. In the past, the festival used to span a full fortnight. 

Bizhu has a strong connection to the traditional practice of jhum cultivation among the Chakmas and is believed to have originated as a way to appease the earth for a prosperous harvest after the first rains of the agricultural season. However, in recent times, the festival has evolved into more of a social gathering for the Chakmas, losing some of its agricultural associations. The rituals associated with Bizhu have also undergone simplification over the years.

How Bizhu Festival is Celebrated? 

Bizhu festivities commence on the initial day, commonly referred to as Phool Bizhu, when Chakma households undergo thorough cleaning and adornment with flowers. In the evening, dedicated prayers are offered to the Buddha, and both Chakma residences and Buddhist temples are illuminated with lamps. 

The following day, Mul Bizhu, is a time for social interaction as individuals visit their fellow villagers, engage in traditional games, and prepare special curries and sweets for the occasion. 

According to Chakma belief, those who pass away on the day of Mul Bizhu are destined for heaven. The Mul Bizhu culminates with a captivating performance of the Bizhu dance. The final day, known as Gojjepojje din, is dedicated to various religious and social activities.

Bizhu Dance

Bizhu dance is a collective dance where individuals position themselves in either a square or circular arrangement. When taking part in this dance, the Chakmas adorn themselves in their customary attire. The women wear pinon and khadi and deck themselves in silver ornaments while the men wear a headgear called khabang and a dhoti and jacket. It was believed to be a religious offering conducted within the confines of the Chakmas temples. 

What sets this dance apart from others is its distinctive pauses throughout the performance. In recent times, it has gained significant popularity due to its captivating rhythm and simple melodies. Through the Bizhu dance, the Chakmas bid farewell to the passing year and welcome the arrival of the new year.