Bihar Culture and Traditions: A Complete Guide for Competitive Exams

Introduction

Bihar is one of the oldest inhabited regions in India, with a legacy rooted in history, culture, and spirituality. From the Magadha kingdom to the land of Buddha and Mahavira, Bihar has shaped Indian civilization. For competitive exams like UPSC, BPSC, SSC, and other state-level exams, understanding Bihar’s culture is important for General Studies and GK sections.

1. Historical Significance of Bihar

• • Magadha was one of the sixteen Mahajanapadas.
  • Pataliputra (now Patna) was the capital during Maurya and Gupta empires.
  • Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya.
  • Mahavira, the founder of Jainism, was born in Vaishali.
  • Nalanda and Vikramshila were ancient universities in Bihar.

2. Major Festivals of Bihar

Chhath Puja

Dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Celebrated six days after Diwali with rituals like Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and Usha Arghya on riverbanks.

Other Important Festivals:

• • Sama-Chakeva – Celebrated in Mithila for sibling bonding.
  • Jitiya – Mothers fast for their children’s well-being.
  • Makar Sankranti – Known as Til Sankranti in Bihar.
  • Holi, Diwali, Durga Puja – Celebrated with local variations.

3. Folk Dances and Music

Folk Dances:

• • Jat-Jatin – Performed by couples during monsoon.
  • Jhijhiya – Women dance with lamps on heads during Dussehra.
  • Chhau – Masked dance form found in southern Bihar too.
  • Bidesia – Created by Bhikhari Thakur, a folk theatre form.

Folk Music:

• • Popular forms include Birha, Sohar, Kajari, Chaita.
  • Languages: Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi.

4. Arts and Handicrafts

Madhubani Painting

Originated in Mithila region, drawn with fingers, twigs, and natural dyes. Has received a GI Tag.

Other Arts:

• • Manjusha Art – Based on Bihula-Bishari folklore, found in Bhagalpur.
  • Sujini Embroidery – Rural quilt embroidery from Muzaffarpur and Madhubani.
  • Tikuli Art – Glass painting found in Patna.

5. Food and Cuisine

Main Dishes:

• • Litti-Chokha – Roasted wheat balls with sattu stuffing.
  • Khichdi – Cooked rice and lentils, eaten with ghee and papad.
  • Sattu Paratha, Baigan Bharta, Bhoonja.

Sweets:

• • Thekua – Made during Chhath Puja.
  • Khurma, Tilkut (from Gaya), Anarsa, Lai (from Barh).

6. Traditional Attire

• • Men: Dhoti, Kurta, and Gamchha.
  • Women: Saree in Maithili style, Lahanga-Choli on festivals.

7. Languages and Literature

• • Official Language: Hindi
  • Regional Languages: Bhojpuri, Maithili, Magahi

Famous Writers:

• • Vidyapati – Maithili poet
  • Ramdhari Singh Dinkar – Nationalist Hindi poet
  • Bhikhari Thakur – Shakespeare of Bhojpuri literature

8. Monuments and Heritage Sites

• • Nalanda Mahavihara – UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Mahabodhi Temple – Bodh Gaya, where Buddha attained enlightenment
  • Vaishali – Associated with Mahavira and Licchavis
  • Vikramshila University – Ancient Buddhist learning center

9. Social Customs and Traditions

• • Joint families and community living are common.
  • Traditional marriage rituals vary by caste and region.
  • Respect for elders and guests is a key part of Bihari culture.

10. Bihar’s Cultural Contribution to India

• • Birthplace of two major religions – Buddhism and Jainism.
  • Historical figures: Ashoka, Chandragupta Maurya, Chanakya.
  • Centers of learning like Nalanda and Vikramshila shaped ancient education.

Conclusion

Bihar’s rich culture and heritage play a significant role in shaping India’s history. For aspirants of UPSC, BPSC, and SSC exams, knowing Bihar’s art, festivals, food, and historical legacy can help you score better in General Studies and GK sections.

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