Bihar is the home of Buddhism and Jainism, and it has a rich cultural history. The region of Bihar, where Gautam Buddha obtained enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, is referred to as “The Land of Buddha.”The population of Bihar state is the most diverse in terms of culture. Here live Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Hindus, and Jainites. Bihar is proud of its rich cultural heritage, which includes being linked to the Vedic era’s “Samudra Manthan,” the Ramayana’s Sita, and the Mahabharata’s Karna. Individuals are modest, truthful, benevolent, and self-assured.
Festivals:
The people of Bihar rejoice and show love during festivals and religious occasions. Chhath Puja, the primary celebration in Bihar, is an occasion to worship the sun god. On the other hand, there is a lot of enthusiasm for other festivals like Sama-Chakeva, Ramnavami, Makar-Sankranti, Bihula, Madhushravani, Teej, Pitrapaksha Mela, Sonepur fair, and Shravani Mela.The country also celebrates other festivals, including as Holi, Saraswati Puja, Ramzan, Bakrid, Mahashivaratri, Durga Puja, Diwali, Buddha Purnima, Christmas, and Mahavir Jayanti.
Language:
While Santali and Urdu are also spoken in Bihar, Hindi is the primary language spoken there. Although Maithili, Bhojpuri, Angika, and Magahi are also extensively spoken in the state, Hindi is the official language.
Cuisine:
Litti Chokha: A classic Bihari cuisine, litti is made of mashed vegetables (chokha) and wheat flour balls filled with roasted gram flour and spices (litti).
Thekua: A popular sweet snack made from wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee, Thekua is often prepared during the Chhath Puja festival.
Music and Dance:
Bihar boasts a rich heritage in Indian classical music, nurturing luminaries such as Bharat Ratna Ustad Bismillah Khan, renowned dhrupad singers like the Malliks and the Mishras, and influential poets like Vidyapati Thakur who significantly contributed to Maithili Music. Within the realm of classical music, Bihar follows the tradition of Hindustani classical music. Among tribal communities, Chhau dance enjoys widespread popularity, while Bidesia stands out as a prominent folk dance, particularly thriving in Bhojpuri-speaking regions. Additionally, Jat-Jatin holds sway in north Bihar, while Jijya adds to the diverse tapestry of Bihar’s vibrant dance forms.
Conclusion:
Bihar’s culture and traditions reflect the state’s deep-rooted history and its contributions to the cultural tapestry of India. The vibrant festivals, art forms, and historical sites continue to draw both scholars and tourists, making Bihar a significant cultural hub in the country.
