Asom Divas, also known as Sukaphaa Divas, is a culturally significant public holiday celebrated annually on December 2 in the northeastern Indian state of Assam. The day holds deep historical importance as it honors the arrival of Sukaphaa, the legendary founder of the Ahom Kingdom, whose reign shaped the political, cultural, and social identity of Assam for more than six centuries. Recognized officially as a state holiday since 1996, Asom Divas is observed with immense pride and enthusiasm by the people of Assam, symbolizing unity, heritage, and respect for their shared history.
Sukaphaa’s journey to Assam in 1228 CE marked the beginning of a transformative era in the region’s history. Originating from present-day Yunnan in China, he led his followers across treacherous terrains to settle in the Brahmaputra Valley. According to local legend, Sukaphaa was a direct descendant of God Khulung, a divine figure who ruled over the Mong-Ri-Mong-Ram region before sending Sukaphaa to fulfill his destiny in Assam. Known as a unifying leader and often revered as a messenger of God, Sukaphaa laid the foundation of the Ahom dynasty, fostering peace, integration, and cooperation among the diverse ethnic communities of the region.
Every year on Asom Divas, communities across Assam come together to celebrate Sukaphaa’s enduring legacy. Cultural programs, traditional music, folk dances, and storytelling sessions bring his story to life, while educational institutions organize seminars, workshops, and exhibitions to inform younger generations about his achievements and vision. Government buildings, schools, and cultural centers hold special events to reinforce the values of unity and harmony that Sukaphaa championed.
More than just a commemoration, Asom Divas serves as a tribute to Assam’s rich heritage and a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation. It inspires the people of the state to uphold the ideals of peace, solidarity, and mutual respect that have been central to Assam’s identity since the time of Sukaphaa. For visitors, the day offers a unique opportunity to witness the pride, traditions, and cultural depth that define the spirit of Assam.
History of Asom Divas
The reason behind celebrating Asom Divas in Assam has its roots in history. The Ahom Dynasty was formed by Chaolung Sukhapha, a prince of the Tai State of Mong Mao which is currently situated in Ruili in Yunnan, China.
According to the legend, the cousin of Prince Sukhapha was not willing to give away the throne for the latter and hence was creating a lot of obstructions. This family dispute made the Prince head to the Patkai Mountains of Assam.
His advent became the foundation date of the Ahom Kingdom and in no time, people started treating Sukaphaa as their God, courtesy of his bravery and courage with which he led his Kingdom.
Ahom Community in Assam
As we all know by now, the Ahom Community was founded by the Great King, Chaolong Sukhapha and it still is very much prominent in Assam. Their mother-tongue is the Ahom language and while earlier, the entire community spoke it, now they have started speaking different languages.
The Ahom Community is mostly found in the north part of Assam in places like - Sibsagar, Golaghat, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Sonitpur, and Dhemaji.
They reside in some parts of Arunachal Pradesh as well, Karbi Anglong and Lohit districts, being the most popular among them.
Major Attractions of Asom Divas 2025
1. Cultural Dance and Music
The day of Asom Divas starts with beautiful folk music and dance performed by local artists. The major folk dance forms are Bagurumba, Bihu dance, Bhortal Dance, etc. Classical Assamese music is divided into Borgeet and Ojapali which combines narrative singing with dancing.
2. Award Ceremony
After the cultural dance and music performances come the award ceremony wherein the Chief Minister of Assam gives awards and rewards to the winners.
3. Procession
At the end of the day, there is a grand procession that is organized by the authorities. While it is carried out, people sing local songs in order to praise Chaolung Sukaphaa and wrap up the festival.
How to Reach Assam
Assam is much more than what meets the eye and this beautiful place looks even better during this vibrant festival. Asom Divas is celebrated at Rabindra Bhawan which is located on Gopinath Bordoloi Road in Guwahati. There are different ways to get there and here are the easiest of them all.
By Air
The nearest airport to Assam is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport. And, from here the Cultural Centre is approximately 22 kilometers away which will take nearly 1 hour or more via car or bus.
The airport is well-equipped, and flights from major cities of India arrive here frequently. In fact, international flights from Hong Kong also take off from and land at this airport.
By Road
The road connectivity of Assam with its neighboring states and cities is smooth. Assam has its own bus corporation too, to serve the state via ASTC or Assam State Transport Corporation.
Volvo Bus Services are also available from Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati Railway Station, and Rupnath Brahma Inter-State Bus Terminus (ISBT) to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport.
By Rail
Assam has great rail connectivity laid out conveniently across India. The nearest railway station to reach Assam is the Guwahati Railway Station which is well-connected via frequent train services from and to the different parts of India.
There are trains such as Avadh Assam EXP, ANVT AGTL RAJ, AGTL Sundri EXP, and NDLS SCL PSK EXP that run from Delhi to Guwahati. If you are traveling from Mumbai, then you can consider trains such as LIT KYQ AC EXP, Guwahati EXP, and Karambhoomi EXP.
Frequently Questions Asked About Asom Divas 2025
Q1. What is the Assamese festival in 2025?
A1. One of the major Assamese festivals in 2025 is Magh Bihu (also called Bhogali Bihu), celebrated in January. It marks the end of the harvest season and is known for feasts, bonfires, traditional games, and community celebrations across Assam.
Q2. What is the date of Assam Divas?
A2. Assam Divas, also known as Sukaphaa Divas, will be observed on December 2, 2025. It commemorates the arrival of Sukaphaa, the founder of the Ahom Kingdom, and celebrates Assam’s unity, heritage, and cultural identity.
Q3. Which festival is celebrated on 14 January 2025 in Assam?
A3. On 14 January 2025, Assam will celebrate Magh Bihu, a harvest festival dedicated to marking the end of the harvesting season. It features traditional feasts, community bonfires called Meji, and various folk games.
Q4. Which festival is coming in 2025?
A4. In 2025, several major festivals will be celebrated across India, including Magh Bihu in Assam, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, Poush Mela in West Bengal, Diwali in October, and Holi in March.
Q5. What is the festival of letters 2025?
A5. The Festival of Letters in 2025 refers to an annual literary and cultural event organized by the Sahitya Akademi in India. It usually takes place in February, featuring book releases, literary discussions, award ceremonies, and programs celebrating Indian languages and literature.
