The Celebration of Life and Nature
Explore the vibrant traditions of Biju, the biggest festival of the Chakma people, celebrated over three days with floating flowers, traditional food, and community bonding.
For the Chakma people, Biju is more than just a festival—it is the heartbeat of their cultural existence. Marking the end of the Bengali year and the beginning of a new one, Biju is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across the Hill Tracts.
The festival begins with Phool Biju on the penultimate day of the year. Villagers wake up at dawn to collect wildflowers and float them in rivers as an offering to the water goddess, praying for peace and prosperity. The main day, Mul Biju, involves visiting friends and family. Every household prepares Paxon (a mixed vegetable curry made with over 20-30 ingredients). It is a day of open doors and open hearts.
The final day, Gojjepojje Din, which is the New Year’s Day, is spent resting, visiting religious shrines (Kyangs), and seeking blessings from elders. Biju unites the community. It is a time when old grievances are forgotten, and social bonds are renewed.