On Thursday, Assam made history as a milestone with the largest Bihu performance at a single venue elevating the traditional dance image from the international stage. The Guinness Book of World Records was set at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati. Total participation of 11304 folk dancers in which male and female presented the Bihu dance in the presence of Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma. The largest ensemble of 2,500 Assamese dhol players also performed with the dancers. 

The traditional dance event was organised by the Assam government under the supervision of CM Himanta and his vision to promote the Assamese cultural heritage. The officials of the Guinness World Records team were especially present at the event. “We had set a world record and created history for both Bihu Dance as well as Bihu dhols with outstanding performances by dancers and drummers. It is a golden opportunity for us to showcase our heritage and culture across the globe,” Sarma said. 

Two world records were set by the Bihu performance. The first one was for the largest traditional dance, whereas the second one was for the largest musical instrument group. It has been reported that the culture department of the state covered the expenses of the event, while the Assam government took the lead in registering ‘Bihu’ in the Guinness World Records. On the other hand, The Assam government will give Rs 25,000 to each of the over 11,000 participants of the ‘Mega Bihu’ along with the “master trainers” and reserve performers.

According to an official quoted by a news agency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to make a day-long trip to Guwahati on Friday. During his visit, a group of performers will present the ‘Bihu’ dance to him, and Guinness certificates will be presented in his presence. In 2015, China established the previous records for the largest traditional dance with the participation of 7,700 individuals. On the other hand, in 2019, India set the record for the largest musical instruments ensemble with 3,730 participants.