The Mising community across Assam is celebrating Ali-Aye-Ligang, the festival associated with agriculture, with great enthusiasm and cultural fervor.
Ali-Aye-Ligang is observed on the first Wednesday of Assamese month of Fagun. This festival, celebrated at the arrival of spring, is a reflection of the deep agricultural philosophy of the community. It reflects the deep connection between farming, nature, and culture in Assam. The earth, at this time, is considered fertile and receptive to the sowing of seeds, making it a sacred period for the Misings.
The name of the festival is made of three terms, with Ali meaning legumes, and Aye means seed, while Ligang means to sow. Together, Ali-Aye-Ligang means “the season to sow seeds”, especially legume and paddy seeds. This meaning clearly highlights the farming-based worldview of the Mising community.
Members of the community donned their vibrant traditional attire, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the occasion.
This festival, deeply rooted in agricultural traditions, marks the beginning of the sowing season and has been observed by the Mising community since ancient times.
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Community members prepare traditional food items such as poro aapong (rice beer) and purang apin (boiled rice wrapped in leaves), which are integral to the festival. The occasion is also marked by cultural performances, including the traditional Gumrag dance.
In Jamugurihat, the Towbhanga Jubak Sangha, in collaboration with the local women’s society is hosting the festival with active participation from the community. Adding to the festivities, the local Mising community has constructed a spectacular Chang Ghar at the venue.
Meanwhile, in a post on X’ Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended his heartfelt wishes on the occasion and wrote, “On the joyous occasion of Ali-Aye Ligang, I extend my warm greetings to the Mising community. A celebration rooted in agriculture and renewal, let us offer our prayers for a good harvest, prosperity, and harmony in every home.”
