Art and Culture of Kishanganj

Beauty of Kishanganj depicts from its diverse culture, religious harmony, secular credentials and peaceful living which turns it unique in Bihar state. Kishanganj District accommodates different communities but majority of inhabitants are Muslims. Good number of residents is from different Hindu castes or creeds besides followers of Sikhism, Christianity and few lesser known religions. Although the communities have huge difference in heredity and culture, they indeed unite in tradition and lifestyles of this region to coexist peacefully in secular harmony.


Inhabitants of this district are known for following the diverse social customs and religious beliefs which differentiate them but at the same juncture they remain united with the communal harmonies. Variation in the economic structures and coexistence of masses speaking different languages are their exemplary attributes.

Traditional Culture of Kishanganj

Both Suerjapuri and Seerpuri culture of Kishanganj and nearby districts differentiate them from rest part of Bihar. It times their artistic and culture orientation becomes debatable issue as inhabitants of Kishanganj and its surrounding areas maintain lifestyle that has juxtapositions with adjacent West Bengal and Nepal. Inhabitants of this region speak Hindi and Urdu languages besides widely spoken Surjapuri dialect that specialize their cultural amalgamation. This local language has elements of Nepali, Bengali, Bhojpuri, Maithili, Hindi and Urdu elements. Small portion of masses especially educated young generation speak English language as well. People involve in multiple activities such as listening to radios, chatting or gathering at the typically designed tea shops for get together.

Festivals in Kishanganj

Festivals like Eid and Dussehra are celebrated in Kishanganj with total joviality. Local masses meet each other to showcase their love and affection for each other during such occasions. Pomp and grandeur can be seen amongst the kids and adults alike. Young girls and boys exchange gifts during such occasions that are also considered highly photographed festivals in this district. Likewise, Diwali, Holi and small time festivals of Chatth are celebrated with the equal zeal. Decorations through lights, bright colored Rangoli and diyas, preparation of sweets to visiting each other’s homes are all worth noting during festival time.

Folk Songs and Dances in Kishanganj

Mixed culture and people of various faiths living together bring unique cultural consolidation in the masses especially the young generation and adults. Religious preferences aside, the youngsters of Kishanganj take too much interest in Bollywood and Hollywood songs and listen to them like their peers in other north Indian regions. Some traditional folk songs and dances from Bhojpuri cinema is also witnessed in this region. Local Surjapuri folk songs and dances are captivating during special occasions in this region. Women take active participation in dances and songs during marriage ceremonies. Such dances are unique in all respects in Kishanganj which project the lifestyle of its people.

Art and Craft of Kishanganj

Kishanganj doesn’t have any organized art and craft industry yet. This district though maintains its specialty in few things which are rare in India. Take for example handicraft items prepared from jute and recycled papers. They are amazingly beautiful products prepared in Kishanganj. Likewise, use of bamboos to design baskets and many other household items are the outcomes of creativity of this district’s inhabitant’s that turn its craft highly appealing. Use of perfect colour combination in decorating these products showcase creative approaches of women, many tribes and the local masses of Kishanganj which is unique and unequal.

Costumes in Kishanganj

People of Kishanganj are traditional which is reflected the way they dress up. Usually married women wear saris & blouses while unmarried girls prefer salwar kameez. Their dressing choices hardly differentiate them from religions they follow except sindoors and abayas and ornaments they wear. Most women wear colourful and patterned dresses which look vibrant for their pretty and beautiful appearance. Such dressing develops sense of belonging and confidence in them. A drastic change has though occurred in recent years with fast urbanization and most westernized brands having their presence even in smaller towns like Kishanganj. Their projection is seen here as well with girls and women wearing jeans and pants. Churidars combined with tight kurtas still remain prime choices in the city and rural areas. Menfolk in Kishanganj wear shirt and traditional lungis or trousers. Good chunk of Muslims like to wear kurta and pajamas which are common dressing trends in the city and its surrounding areas.

To conclude we may say that inhabitants of this region believe in unity and brotherhood. They celeberate all major festivals which represent Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism and numerous other religions. One observes equal fervors and gaieties in the celebration of all such festivals that are well projected through the happy environments and celebration mood in every nook and corner. Other additions in this festivity include masses involved in shopping new clothes or accessories during the festival time for self and to gift their near and dear ones. It is a common scene in most households to prepare variety of delicious foods to eat and distribute them amongst the relatives for a purpose to showcase religious affinity and harmony on those particular occasions.