Know the Culture & Traditions of Bihar

The culture of Bihar is a vibrant blend of traditions, arts, and festivals that reflect its rich historical heritage. Renowned for its ancient art forms, diverse religious practices and amazing traditional cuisines, Bihar's cultural landscape showcases a deep commitment to preservation and communal harmony. The rich traditions of Bihar make it a unique and dynamic embodiment of Indian heritage.

Historical Background of Bihar

Bihar, a region steeped in history, traces its origins back to ancient civilisations along the fertile Gangetic plains. It played a central role in the early history of India, serving as the heartland of the first major empire under the Mauryas, followed by the Guptas. The historical richness of Bihar is notably marked by its status as the birthplace of Buddhism; it was here that Prince Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, transforming into Buddha and founding a religion that would spread across the world.

Despite being predominantly Hindu, Bihar is a melting pot of various religions where Buddhism, Islam, Sikhism, and Christianity coexist in harmony. This peaceful coexistence is reflected in the diverse cultural practices, festivals, and everyday life of its people. Bihar's culture and traditions are a testament to its historical legacy, blending ancient customs with a contemporary ethos of tolerance and unity.

Major Festivals of Bihar

The rich culture of Bihar is reflected through its lively and colourful festivals. Throughout the year, the state comes alive with celebrations that are steeped in tradition, faith, and communal unity. Here are some of the major festivals that make Bihar an exciting destination:

• Chhath Puja: A cornerstone of the culture of Bihar, Chhath Puja is dedicated to the Sun God and is the most significant festival in the state. This four-day event involves rigorous fasting, offerings at sunrise and sunset, and prayers for family well-being. Celebrated with simplicity and deep devotion, it's a profound expression of Bihar's traditions.
• Teej: Teej showcases the vibrant culture of Bihar, with women fasting for the health and longevity of their husbands. Honoring Goddess Parvati's penance to marry Lord Shiva, this festival is integral to the traditions of Bihar.
• Sonepur Mela: Held annually on the banks of the Ganges, Sonepur Mela is not only Asia’s largest cattle fair but also a cultural hub that captures the essence of Bihar’s traditions. This vibrant event combines commerce with cultural activities, offering folk performances, handicraft shopping, and traditional Bihari cuisine.
• Shravani Mela: In the holy city of Sultanganj, Shravani Mela is a month-long festival that draws thousands of pilgrims. This significant religious gathering, where devotees offer Ganges water to Lord Shiva at Deoghar Temple, embodies the deep-rooted faith and traditions of Bihar.
• Ramnavami: Celebrating the birth of Lord Rama, Ramnavami is observed with enthusiasm across Bihar. This festival, which involves day-long fasting, religious discourses, and devotional songs, highlights the rich cultural fabric and spiritual traditions of Bihar.
• Bihula Festival: Unique to the Bhagalpur district, the Bihula Festival is dedicated to Goddess Manasa. Celebrated with traditional rituals and performances that recount the legend of Bihula's devotion, this festival is a distinct part of the cultural heritage of Bihar.

Languages of Bihar

The linguistic diversity mirrors the rich culture of Bihar and its historical heritage, characterized by several languages and dialects:

• Hindi: Hindi is the official language, and it is predominantly spoken throughout Bihar, especially in urban centres like Patna, Gaya, and Bhagalpur. It's the primary language for government, education, and official communications.
• Urdu: Co-official in many districts, Urdu reflects the historical influence of the Mughal empire in Bihar. It's prevalent in regions with significant Muslim populations and is prominent in local literature and arts.

Regional Languages and Dialects:

• Maithili: Primarily spoken in the Mithila region of northern Bihar, Maithili has a rich literary tradition and is recognized among India's 22 scheduled languages.
• Bhojpuri: Common in western Bihar and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bhojpuri is integral to Bihar’s cultural identity and is also spoken internationally in places like Mauritius, Fiji, and Trinidad and Tobago.
• Magadhi: Believed to be the precursor to several modern languages, including Hindi and Bengali, Magadhi was historically used in the ancient kingdom of Magadha.
• Angika: Predominantly used in the Bhagalpur area, Angika is a significant but unofficial dialect for daily communications in its region.

This linguistic landscape not only enriches the culture of Bihar but also offers unique insights for language enthusiasts and cultural travellers exploring the state’s heritage.

Traditional Cuisines of Bihar

One of the best ways to explore the culture of Bihar is through its food, and Bihar offers a variety of traditional dishes that reflect its agricultural roots and cultural diversity. Bihari cuisine is known for its simplicity, robust flavours, and the use of locally sourced ingredients. Here are some must-try traditional dishes:

1. Litti Chokha: This is arguably the most iconic dish from Bihar. Litti are round dough balls made from wheat flour and stuffed with sattu roasted gram flour seasoned with spices. This traditional food of Bihar is baked over a fire and served with Chokha, which is a mashed mixture of roasted vegetables like eggplant, tomatoes, and potatoes. The smoky flavour of Litti combined with the tangy Chokha makes this dish a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
2. Sattu Paratha: Another popular dish is Sattu Paratha, a flatbread stuffed with roasted gram flour sattu and spices. It is often served with pickles and yoghurt and is known for its high nutritional value. Sattu is widely used in Bihari cuisine and is considered a staple, particularly in rural areas where it serves as an energy-boosting food.
3. Khichdi: A comfort food in many Indian households, Khichdi in Bihar is typically made with rice and lentils, seasoned with spices, and served with pickles, ghee, and papad. It is a tradition of Bihar to eat this simple yet flavourful dish, often eaten during religious fasts.
4. Thekua: Bihar’s traditional sweet dish, Thekua, is made during the Chhath Puja festival. It is prepared using wheat flour, jaggery, and ghee and is deep-fried to perfection. Thekua is significant to the culture of Bihar and is often offered as a prasad offering to the Sun God during the festival.
5. Dal Pitha: A savoury snack, Dal Pitha is a type of dumpling made from rice flour dough stuffed with a spicy lentil mixture. It is steamed and served with chutney, making it a popular breakfast or evening snack.
6. Malpua: For those with a sweet tooth, Malpua is a must-try. This is a traditional Bihari dessert made from flour, sugar, and milk, deep-fried and often soaked in syrup. It is commonly served during festivals like Holi.
7. Chana Ghugni: A spicy curry made with black chickpeas, Chana Ghugni is a popular street food in Bihar. It’s often served with puffed rice or parathas, making it a delicious and filling snack.

The multi-cuisine restaurant at Marasa Sarovar Premiere in Bodhgaya, a Club Mahindra Associate resort, serves the best local dishes.

Bihar Folk Dance and Music

Bihar’s tradition of folk music and dance plays an essential role in the state’s cultural celebrations and social rituals. These performances are deeply connected to the everyday lives of the people, often reflecting their joys, sorrows, and aspirations. Visitors to Bihar will find plenty of opportunities to experience Bihar's vibrant traditions.

1. Jat-Jatin Dance: A significant expression of the culture of Bihar, the Jat-Jatin dance is performed in the Mithila region during the monsoon. It narrates the story of a rural couple, Jat and Jatin, showcasing the emotional dynamics of rural life through colourful attire and local folk music, reflecting the rich traditions of Bihar.
2. Jhijhiya Dance: This dance is a traditional plea for rain and a staple during the Dussehra festival, illustrating the unique traditions of Bihar. Women perform it while balancing earthen pots with lit lamps on their heads, symbolizing both a prayer for rain and the celebration of the harvest within the culture of Bihar.
3. Bidesia Dance-Drama: Rooted in the Bhojpuri region, Bidesia is a poignant part of the folk culture of Bihar, created by Bhikhari Thakur. This dance-drama blends humour with stark social commentary on issues like migration and poverty, capturing the conflict between tradition and modernity in Bihar's traditions.
4. Sohar and Sumangali Songs: Integral to the musical traditions of Bihar, Sohar songs are sung to celebrate new birth, while Sumangali songs are performed during weddings. These traditional songs are deeply emotional, playing a critical role in the celebrations and cultural heritage of Bihar.
5. Folk Instruments: The use of traditional instruments such as the dholak, harmonium, and bansuri in Bihari folk music adds a distinctive rhythm and melody that enriches the cultural festivities and traditions of Bihar.

Bihar Art and Craft

Bihar is home to a vibrant tradition of arts and crafts. Exploring these art forms offers a window into the culture and traditions of Bihar, showcasing the state's enduring artistic legacy and the diverse skills of its artisans.

1. Madhubani Mithila Paintings: This famous art form, originating from the Mithila region, is a vibrant representation of the culture of Bihar. Traditionally created on mud walls and now on various mediums, Madhubani paintings feature Hindu deities, nature, and mythological themes. Utilizing natural dyes and handmade brushes, this art form is predominantly sustained by women, making it a vital part of the traditions of Bihar.
2. Patna Kalam Paintings: Emerging during the Mughal era, Patna Kalam is another significant artistic expression within the culture of Bihar. It is distinguished by its naturalistic depiction of everyday life, from court scenes to local festivals, characterized by delicate lines and detailed imagery.
3. Tikuli Art: This ancient art form from Bihar involves painted glass and gold foil to create vibrant decorative pieces. Originally used for adorning women's foreheads, Tikuli art has evolved into a broader craft that includes jewellery and home decor, reflecting the rich traditions of Bihar.
4. Bamboo Craft: Bamboo craft is deeply embedded in the rural traditions of Bihar, where artisans skilfully create household items like baskets and trays. This sustainable craft, using locally sourced bamboo, showcases the utilitarian aspect of Bihar's cultural heritage.
5. Stone Pottery and Sculptures: Dating back to the Mauryan Empire, Bihar's stone craftsmanship is renowned, particularly the sculptures from Nalanda and Bodhgaya. Alongside, traditional pottery remains prevalent in rural Bihar, where artisans continue to mould earthenware using ancient techniques, contributing to Bihar's cultural narrative.
6. Handicrafts and Textiles: Bihar's rich array of handicrafts, including the indigenous Tussar silk, highlights the state's cultural identity. Artisans employing traditional handloom techniques produce exquisite silk textiles, while the Manjusha art, involving silk painting, further enriches the traditional craftsmanship of Bihar.

Why is Bodhgaya a Must-Visit Destination?

Bodhgaya is a key spiritual, cultural and traditional destination in Bihar, important for the following reasons:

1. Mahabodhi Temple Complex: Central to Bodhgaya, this UNESCO World Heritage site is where Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple complex features a grand spire, carved stupas, and the sacred Bodhi Tree, offering a tranquil setting for meditation and spiritual introspection.
2. Global Pilgrimage Site: Bodhgaya attracts monks, nuns, and pilgrims globally, housing monasteries from diverse Buddhist communities such as Japan, Thailand, and Tibet. These sites present Bihar’s culture and spiritual amalgamation.
3. Meditation Retreats: The town provides numerous meditation retreats and spiritual practices led by experienced monks. It's an ideal locale for those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice in a serene environment.
4. Historical and Cultural Significance: Bodhgaya has been a centre of Buddhist learning and spirituality for centuries, with significant historical sites and ruins that reflect its rich past.
5. Festivals and Events: The town hosts various Buddhist festivals like Buddha Purnima, offering visitors a chance to engage actively with Buddhist rituals and traditions.

Bodhgaya's spiritual, historical, and cultural offerings make it a compelling destination for those exploring Buddhism or seeking spiritual growth.

Best resort to stay in Bodhgaya: Marasa Sarovar Premiere, Bodhgaya

Staying at Marasa Sarovar Premiere in Bodhgaya, a Club Mahindra Associate resort, combines comfort with cultural immersion, making it a prime choice for travellers. This resort in Bihar(Bodh Gaya) is located near key attractions like the Mahabodhi Temple, which offers easy access to Bodhgaya's spiritual sites. Guests can enjoy modern amenities, including spacious rooms, an on-site spa, and a swimming pool, enhancing comfort after day-long explorations. The resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant serves local and international dishes, catering to diverse palates. Club Mahindra members benefit from exclusive experiences like guided temple tours and cultural workshops. The peaceful setting, inspired by Buddhist aesthetics, offers a peaceful retreat, while family-friendly services ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.

Club Mahindra Membership Enhances the Travel Experience

A Club Mahindra membership enriches travel with access to over 140 resorts worldwide, including Marasa Sarovar Premiere in Bodhgaya. Club Mahindra Members enjoy exclusive discounts and provide curated local experiences like cultural workshops and guided tours. Designed for families, these resorts offer amenities such as kids' clubs and activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. The Club Mahindra membership's flexibility allows booking during any season, maximizing convenience and enjoyment. Additionally, the Club Mahindra membership broadens travel opportunities with access to international destinations, maintaining consistent and exclusive experiences globally.

In conclusion, a Club Mahindra membership is more than just access to splendid accommodations. It’s about providing a complete and enriching travel experience with exclusive benefits, cultural immersion, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're visiting Bodhgaya for spiritual reflection or seeking a relaxing family getaway, Club Mahindra enhances every aspect of your journey.