The annual ‘Beel Mara Utsav’ was observed at the historic Deepor Beel in Guwahati on the first Sunday of the English New Year, January 5, with traditional fishing activities drawing fishermen and buyers from across the region.
Maintaining age-old custom, more than 700 fishermen entered the cold waters of Deepor Beel from midnight, braving severe winter conditions to participate in the community fishing ritual. By early morning, the banks of the wetland were crowded with hundreds of buyers eager to purchase the wetland’s locally famed fish.
What is Beel Mara Utsav?
Beel Mara Utsav is a traditional fishing festival held annually at Deepor Beel, where fishermen collectively harvest fish from the wetland in a customary practice that dates back generations. On January 5, 2026, over 700 fishermen participated in the ritual fishing, while buyers gathered along the banks to purchase freshly caught fish, continuing a long-standing cultural tradition of Guwahati.
Fishermen brave the cold for traditional fishing
Participants said fishing began late at night, with fishermen entering the beel using traditional methods and simple tools. Despite the sharp cold and foggy conditions, the activity continued uninterrupted till early morning.
Deepor Beel, a Ramsar-listed wetland, is known for its rich biodiversity and has long been associated with community fishing traditions that balance livelihood with customary practice.
Buyers gather from across the region
As the fishing progressed, buyers from different parts of Guwahati and nearby areas lined the banks to purchase fish directly from the fishermen. The event is known for attracting customers seeking fresh indigenous fish varieties unique to the beel.
Locals said the festival is not only about fishing but also serves as a social and economic gathering that supports fishing communities at the start of the new year.
Cultural and local significance
Beel Mara Utsav remains one of the few surviving traditional fishing festivals in urban Assam. Despite rapid urbanisation around Deepor Beel, the event continues to symbolise the connection between local communities and the wetland ecosystem.
Residents and participants said the festival reflects collective effort, shared livelihood, and respect for tradition.
What happens next?
After the completion of fishing activities, the wetland returns to normal use, with authorities and local communities expected to continue monitoring fishing practices to ensure ecological balance at Deepor Beel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Beel Mara Utsav is traditionally held on the first Sunday of the English New Year each year.
This year, over 700 fishermen took part in the traditional fishing activity at Deepor Beel.
