Five-day event begins on March 31

The five-day Brahmaputra river festival titled Namami Brahmaputra organised by the BJP-led government in Assam, will witness significant participation from China.

According to the event organisers, described as the “biggest river festival of India,” various other countries such as Vietnam and Singapore are also attending.

The Brahmaputra, 2,900 km long, is an international river with 918 km of it flowing in India, 1625 km in China and 337 km in Bangladesh. “We have received confirmation from the Chinese officials regarding their participation. A team of delegates from China will take part in a trade seminar at the festival,” director of Assam’s Inland Water Transport B.B. Dev Chowdhury said.

The festival will begin on March 31 with an event scheduled to be inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee.

“We are also trying to ensure Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence during the festival,” said Mr. Chowdhury.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will preside. According to the Chief Minister, “Brahmaputra is our culture, civilisation, economy and lifeline.” The festival which will be celebrated in 21 districts will have eight roadshows in various cities as well as two international roadshows. It will also showcase indigenous sports, local food, handicrafts as well as film festivals.

The festival will conclude on April 4.