Guwahati, March 22: With about three weeks to go for Rongali Bihu, the Guwahati city, along with other parts of the State, is getting ready for the festival of joy and merriment that marks the advent of the Assamese New Year and spring, the king of seasons. The rhythmic beats of the dhol (drum), sweet strains of the pepa (a flute made of buffalo horn) and mellifluous notes of the cuckoo are intermittently reverbrating in the some pockets and hilly areas in the city.

People of Guwahati, including many organizations, are having some ideas about Bohag Bihu celebrations up their sleeve. While some artistes and Bihu groups are busy reheasring husori (carol) singing and cultural nite shows, artisans seem to be busiest lot at the moment. An example is Ganesh Sarkar, owner of the Ganesh Music Mart at Ganeshguri here. He hopes to sell at least 100 dhols this year, though he sold 12 last year.

In fact Sarkar's shop repaired more old dhols last year. Two dhol-makers are working day in, day out at his shop.

Many young girls, including students, are preparing for "Bihu Konwar" and "Bihu Konwari" competitions lined up by various organizations this Bihu. Elaborate preparations are also being made by Bihutoli committees for Rongali Bihu celebrations in the city.

A variety of delicious items that characterize Rongali Bihu have started flooding a number food joints here. # #