Bihu, a set of seasonal festivals associated with the agricultural cycle and marked by traditional dance, music and community feasts, is primarily celebrated in which Indian state?

The correct answer is Assam . Key Points Bihu is the most important cultural and religious festival of Assam , transcending caste and creed, and is deeply rooted in the state's agrarian economy . The festival is celebrated in three distinct phases: Rongali or Bohag Bihu (April), Kongali or Kati Bihu (October), and Bhogali or Magh Bihu (January), marking different stages of the paddy crop cycle . Rongali Bihu is the most popular, signifying the Assamese New Year and the onset of the spring seeding season, characterized by the Bihu dance , traditional songs (Husori), and the use of the Gamocha . Kongali Bihu is a solemn occasion where people light lamps (Saki) in front of Tulsi plants and in granaries to pray for a good harvest and protect the mid-growth crops. Bhogali Bihu marks the end of the harvesting season and is centered around community feasting, building temporary thatched huts called Bhelaghar , and burning the Meji (bonfire) on the morning of the main day. The Bihu dance , performed by both men and women, is known for its brisk steps and rapid hand movements, accompanied by instruments like the Dhol (drum), Pepa (buffalo horn pipe), and Gogona (harp). Additional Information Manipur : Celebrates Yaoshang (the Manipuri version of Holi) and Lai Haraoba , a ritualistic festival dedicated to the forest deities known as Umang Lai . It is also famous for the Sangai Festival , named after the state's rare brow-antlered deer. Odisha : Known for the Ratha Yatra of Puri and Nuakhai , a major harvest festival celebrated primarily in Western Odisha to welcome the new rice of the season. Other notable festivals include Raja Parba , which celebrates womanhood and the earth's fertility. Sikkim : Celebrates Saga Dawa , which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and nirvana of Lord Buddha . Losoong is the Sikkimese New Year, marked by the Chaam dance performed by monks in various monasteries.