Kushiabill village hosts Bathou religious meet

DIMAPUR — In a significant religious and cultural gathering, over 100 Bodo delegates from the Bodoland Territorial Area Districts (BTAD), Assam, arrived at Kechakhaiti Than in Kushiabill village, Dimapur, to participate in a Bathou religious meet hosted by the local Mech (Bodo) Kachari community.

“This remarkable event highlighted the deep spiritual and cultural roots of Bathou, the traditional religion of the Bodo people.

“With delegates dressed in traditional attire and aaronai scarves of various colours symbolising their respective affiliations, the gathering stood as a powerful testament to unity, cultural identity, and the living heritage of indigenous faith,” an update stated.

The event was marked by rituals, prayers (Sanjwra), cultural songs, and thoughtful discussions on the relevance of Bathouism in modern times. The sacred Sijou plant, symbolising the five principles of Bathou—truth, wisdom, peace, compassion, and forgiveness—was at the centre of the ceremonial proceedings.

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Some key figures who played leading roles in organising and guiding the event included Chilarai Mech (president of Than Committee), Manuraj Basumatari (vice-president), Babul Mech (vice-president of KTCN), Langkang Mech, (GB of Kushiabill village), Biswajit Mech (secretary of Kushiabill Village Council), and Rameswar Mech (elder of the Mech Kachari community).

“Their presence and speeches inspired the youth and affirmed the importance of upholding and practicing Bathou rituals in daily life. The event not only reinforced religious values but also served as a cultural bridge connecting Bodo communities across state borders,” it stated.

The Mech (Bodo) Kachari community of Kushiabill extended warm hospitality to the visiting delegates and expressed gratitude for their commitment to preserving their shared heritage.

The gathering concluded with communal feasting, traditional performances, and heartfelt exchanges that echoed the spirit of solidarity and sacredness.