Kati Bihu or Kangali Bihu

Kati Bihu is celebrated on the sankranti of the Assamese months of Ahin and Kati. At this time the paddy in the barn is almost exhausted and there is plenty of time to harvest the paddy. It is also known as Kangali Bihu as Kati Bihu is celebrated during this time of poverty. During this Bihu, Assamese people plant basil seedlings in their houses and light candles at the roots of Tulsi in the evening. In addition, candles are lit around the courtyards and in the fields to welcome Lakhimi. Lamps or saaki (candles) is lighted in various places of the house to celebrate this festival. The main lamp is placed in the courtyard where the Tulsi plant is present. The Tulsi plant is cleaned for the festival and is kept on an earthen platform called "Tulsi Bheti." People make offerings and pray to Goddess Tulsi for the wellbeing of their family and to have a good harvest. This ritual is continued for the entire month of Kati. People also light a special lamp called "Akash Banti" (Sky candle) in their paddy fields. These lamps are fueled by mustard oil and are kept high on the tip of bamboo poles. People believe that these lighted lamps will guide their ancestors towards heaven. Another goal of lighting these lamps is to draw insects to the flame to kill them in order to protect the crops.