After a hiatus of nine years, the traditional 'moh juj' (buffalo fight) was reinstated in Assam as part of the 'Magh Bihu' celebration. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma witnessed the event at Ahotguri in Morigaon district. Buffalo fights have been a part of the Magh or Bhogali Bihu harvest festival in Assam since the Ahom rule, but were discontinued in 2014 following a Supreme Court order citing concerns about injuries to the animals.
Apart from buffalo fights, Bulbul bird fights are also integral to traditional Magh Bihu festivities and had been on hold since then. Both events resumed this year, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) set by the state government. The Bulbul bird fights were held on Monday, coinciding with Makar Sankranti.
“I am witnessing Bulbuli (bulbul bird) and ‘mooh juj’ happening in the state after eight-nine years with pride,” Sarma stated at Ahotguri. He acknowledged the 2014 Supreme Court order that halted these events but expressed joy at the resumption of these traditional activities. Sarma urged organizers and buffalo owners to adhere to the SOPs to ensure the safety of the animals.
Preserving heritage responsibly, Sarma emphasized, “It is our duty to preserve and take forward our heritage, but with responsibility.”
Organizers of the buffalo fight at Ahotguri reported the participation of about 50 pairs, with a trophy for the winner. The SOPs, established following a state Cabinet decision, prioritize the safety of animals and prohibit the use of intoxicating drugs or sharp weapons to control them.
Having witnessed the Bulbul fight on Monday, the CM highlighted the ancient tradition, stating, “Glimpses of the Bulbuli Fight which took place at Shri Hayagriva Madhav Mandir after a gap of 9 years. This competition dates back to the days of Swargadeo Pramatta Singha. In December 2023, the Assam Cabinet approved a detailed SoP for conducting this ancient Bihu tradition.”
(With Agency Inputs)
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