Na-Khowa

Na-Khowa () is a traditional farming festival of Assamese people in Assam, India. It is celebrated after the paddy harvest. People cook and eat food made from newly harvested rice. This meal is called Na-Khowa.

The festival is usually celebrated in the month of Aghon (Agrahayana). It celebrates a good harvest and gives thanks for new rice. According to folk belief, people should eat the new rice in Aghon, not in Kati or Puh. In some places, if it cannot be celebrated in Aghon, it is celebrated later in Magh.

Meaning

The exact origin of Na-Khowa is not known. In farming communities, people help each other grow and protect crops. Sharing the first rice after harvest is a sign of cooperation and community.

Celebration

Na-Khowa is a happy community festival. Customs may be different in different places, but the main idea is to celebrate the new harvest.

Many people gather at the Namghar (community prayer hall). They pray and sing devotional songs. Offerings such as payas (sweet rice pudding) and other prasad are given. After the prayers, families and neighbours share a meal together.

In some places, cows are also honoured. Farmers offer new rice to their cattle and take care of them as part of the celebration. Some families also sing hymns to Goddess Lakshmi or plant a banana sapling near their home as a sign of prosperity.

In Lower Assam, especially in Nalbari district, nieces and nephews of the host are expected to join the meal. People believe this brings good fortune.

In Jorhat, a special offering of new rice called Na-Logowa is held at the Sri Sri Ashtabhuja Devalaya in Borbheti during Aghon.

References

Category:Festivals in India