With “the largest Bihu performance at a single venue”, Assam made history and cemented its place in the record books. The massive attempt to break the Guinness World Record involved over 11,000 nasonis (dancers) and dhuliyas (drummers). The record was set around 5.45 pm on April 13 at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati.

Two new Guinness World Records were created at the Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati, Assam, as about 11,000 drummers and folk dancers performed the traditional Bihu dance in an effort to commemorate Bohag/Rongali Bihu.

The first-of-its-kind performance set two records in the presence of State Chief Minister Himanta Biswas Sharma and Guinness World Records Officials. The first record was for the largest Bihu dance performance and the second for the largest performance by traditional folk musicians employing instruments including the “dhol,” “pepa,” “gogona,” and “toka.”

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi appreciated the performers on achieving the historic feat and presented the Guinness record certificates to Sarma on April 14 during his one-day visit to Guwahati.‌‌

“Our festivals are not just cultural extravaganza but are a medium to unite everyone and inspiration to move forward together”, the Prime Minister said. “Rongali Bihu is a festival of heart and soul for the people of Assam. Removes differences and is a symbol of perfect harmony between humans and nature.”

Organized by the Assam government with the intention of highlighting the state’s rich cultural history, the performance featured artists from across the 31 districts of the state.

CM Sarma expressed optimism that the event will help to put Assam and its cultural history on the map throughout the world.

The chief minister also stated that the state government has set a goal for two world records: the largest Bihu dance in a single frame and the largest (dhuliya) drummer group. On the occasion, the certificate for the GI tag-recognised ‘Assamese gamusa (a type of towel)’ was also presented to the state government.

Earlier in March, the Guinness World Records had recognized a compilation of 42.9 lakh essays on Ahom commander Lachit Borphukan as the largest online photo album of handwritten notes.

Guinness World Records adjudicator Swapnil Dangarikar handed over the official letter of recognition to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma at the Janata Bhawan in Guwahati. The certificate for the mega attempt will be handed over later.