Tura: The Koch community came together in vibrant celebration of their annual Pabuni Festival—also known as the Koch National Festival—at Gandhipara in South West Garo Hills on Sunday.
The event, marked by traditional rituals and community gatherings, was jointly organised by the Meghalaya Koch Association and the Meghalaya Koch Students’ Union.
Presiding over the celebrations was Jibananda Koch, president of the Meghalaya Koch Association.
The festival drew enthusiastic participation from members of the Koch community across Meghalaya and neighbouring Assam.
The event was graced by Rangsakona MLA and Chairman of Khadi and Village Industries, Subir Marak, who attended as the chief guest.
Recognising the cultural significance of the occasion, Marak announced a grant of Rs. 3 lakh for the development of the Pabuni compound.
Other notable guests included Sanjay Koch, MDC of Betasing (ST) and former MDC Premananda Koch.
Celebrated each year during Baishakh (April), Pabuni marks the beginning of the Assamese New Year and is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Koch people.
Central to the day’s observances were rituals performed at the Pabuni Shali (shrine), where the Deusi (priest) led the offerings of rice beer (Chokot) and rice cakes (Fap) to Goddess Pabuni, the nature deity revered for bestowing rain and sunshine.
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The festival’s name originates from the word “Paoni,” meaning calling or welcoming, symbolising the arrival of spring.
Beyond its religious undertones, the celebration also plays a pivotal role in preserving Koch cultural identity and strengthening community unity.
