A Bihu dance performance during the function in London. A Telegraph picture

Guwahati, May 15: The weather was typically English, wet and cold. But the warmth at Hornchurch in East London was very much Assamese, lighted as it was by the spirit of Rongali Bihu.

For the Assamese community based in and around London, the annual Rongali Bihu celebrations recently was an occasion to strengthen their bonds as well as remember their roots.

Giving details of the celebrations, the London Bihu Committee’s general secretary, Rishi Kakati, wrote through e-mail that despite the “dreadful weather conditions very few people let that stand in their way from attending the event, which surpassed even last year’s grand success”.

The venue was decorated with festive xorais, japis and gamosas — all of which served to put the Assamese stamp very clearly.

Homemade Assamese delicacies were served to all those who had gathered. These were complimented with a variety of cakes and snacks for children.

“After a warm welcome speech by Neera Borkakoti, the committee’s president, the cultural show featured its usual array of talent plus some new performers,” Kakati added.

The cultural show opened with the classic husori. As flames were not allowed in the premises, the organisers had to make do with unlit lanterns — to keep with Assamese tradition. “But judging by the audience’s enthusiastic response, they were lit in spirit,” Kakati said.

The show featured modern Assamese songs by Gita Sarmah and Bhabani Kakati, a lokgeet by Gitika Saikia.

An energetic Bihu number by Suravi Lahon enthralled the audience. Another Bihu dance was performed by Jilmil Baruah and Gyandeep Saikia.

The piece de resistance, were songs from Kumud Sharma. “Everyone thoroughly enjoyed his rendition of songs by Bhupen Hazarika,” Kakati added.

The finale of the evening was the Bihu bhoj with tender chicken and rou maas, amongst a plethora of other dishes.