Ali-Ai-Ligang
regional
When it happens
February
Begins on the first Wednesday of the Mising month Gimur Polo — Fagun in the Assamese calendar, falling in February. The date moves each year.
Significance
The principal festival of Assam's largest tribal community, and one of the clearest surviving agricultural rites in the state.
Why it's celebrated
It marks the ceremonial start of the paddy sowing season for the Mising, Assam's largest tribal community and a predominantly farming people.
How it's celebrated
The festival opens with the hoisting of a flag, followed by the ceremonial first sowing of paddy performed by the head of the household. The signature dance is the Gumrag, and feasting runs through the days.
Key rituals
Flag hoisting, the first ceremonial sowing by the household head, and the Gumrag dance.
Beliefs & spiritual meaning
The first seed must be put in the ground ceremonially before ordinary sowing may begin.
History & origins
A Mising sowing rite tied to the Brahmaputra's farming year, kept in the riverine villages along the north bank and on Majuli.
Frequently asked
When does Ali-Ai-Ligang begin?+
On the first Wednesday of the Mising month Gimur Polo — Fagun in the Assamese calendar, which falls in February. The date moves each year, and the festival runs about five days.
Where is the best place to see it?+
Majuli, which combines the Mising villages with the island's satra monasteries and is the most accessible option — though it means taking a ferry. Dhemaji, Lakhimpur and Sonitpur also hold it, along the Brahmaputra's north bank.
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