The month of April started with lightning, hailstorms and torrential rains, reminding us that the pre-monsoon showers locally known as Bordochila has reached our doors.

Prerana, the IAS officers’ wives association, Assam welcomed the month of April ( and even its Tea showers) with its monthly meet on the 5th of April with the theme Bihu, reminding us that it’s the time of the year when the spring festival of Assam is right at the corner. A time in the year where an expression of love, merriment, bonding, joy and bonhomie is given paramount importance. A time of rejuvenation before everyone again gives in to the demands of living and working.

The hosts of the April meet were Krishna Barua, Krishna Dutta and Rita Verma who created an apt Bihu atmosphere at CSOI with displays of handcrafted Horai, Diya, Jaapi and the Gamocha. Bell metal botas became unique holder for floating candles and soft music echoed the sounds of dhol, pepa and flute. Spread of Assamese delicacies like til pitha, narikal ladu, gila pitha were arranged on each of the tables.

The hosts and the guests turned up in mekhela chadors in muga, pat, tussar, cotton flaunting the skill of the weavers of the state. Some accessorized their dresses with Assamese jewellery and some with fusion ornaments but each carried a smile and warmth that the meeting deserved.

The President of Prerana, Suman Pipersenia, informed everyone about Prerana members visit to Ashadeep and the contribution of Fifty-one thousand rupees only to help the differently-abled children living there. Ashadeep also homes Rohan, a medal winner from this year’s Special Olympic. Prerana members also visited Atma Nirbhar and donated Rupees one lakh and five thousand. Suman Pipersenia also reminded the members about the upcoming Prerana event Mission Shravan-a project for hearing impaired children of Assam in collaboration with National Health Mission, Assam and Ideal Charity, Manchester,UK. The event is another example of Prerana’s dedication towards making lives better for the underprivileged. She asked the members to participate in the event on the 9th of April, with families and friends to make the event a success and inspire everyone to do their bit to be the change they wish to make.

Our hosts, Krishna Barua, Krishna Dutta and Rita Verma then took the charge of the evening and tickled our tongues with starters like crispy fried American corn vegetable roll, badam fries and peanuts. A variety of beverages were served. But perhaps tickling our tastes was not the only thing in their mind! They were all set to tickle our intelligence bones.

A game of riddles brought the fun of childhood puzzles and word twisters whispering to us that there should never be an end to fun and curiosity. Another quiz game ” Namami Brahmaputra” helped everyone to brush up our knowledge about Brahma’s beloved son, Brahmaputra, the lifeline of Assam. We zealously answered, feeling happy with the right answers and learning the ones we missed.

But when brains had done their job for the evening, everyone enthusiastically yielded to the essence of Rongali Bihu. The songs and music of Bihu filled the room. Feet tapped, hands swayed, hips moved sensually and the guests turned into dancers and happy people.

More gastronomic delights waited. Luchi, Alo-matar ki sabzi, channa dal, Tomato chutney, salad, achaar, kheer/pais, Bogali(sticky rice) with curd, jaggery and cream featured in main menu.

Yes, we all are in the Bihu mood. Happy Rongali Bihu to everyone!