Continuing the traditions of Magh Bihu, a unique, adventurous sport is held in Assam during the season of Magh Bihu, known as Moh-Juj (Buffalo Fight). Moh in Assamese means buffalo, and Juj refers to fight. People set up and watch domesticated buffalo fights in paddy fields that have been harvested.

During the harvest season, natural grass could be found abundantly in the fields, which are consumed by the buffaloes, and they become very strong. When male buffaloes become physically strong enough, they are more prone to fight each other. During this stage, staged fights are arranged for the people to enjoy. Moh-Juj is a traditional sport that holds the emotions of Assamese people together and adds to the festive spirits during the Magh Bihu celebration.

History oh Moh-Juj

Since the Ahom reign, buffalo fights have been held during the harvest festival Magh, or Bhogali Bihu, in many regions of the state, including Ahotguri (Morigaon) and Sivasagar. Since 1972, the Ahatguri Moh-Juj contests have been a custom. Almost 200 years ago, Swargadeo Rudra Singha, the 30th Ahom ruler, established it. Bihu was acknowledged as the national festival of Assam in 1694 by Rudra Singha (1694–1714), who also granted it royal patronage in 1696.

During the Ahom dynasty, the state’s traditional game of buffalo fighting was given royal favor. The Ahom royalty used to enjoy the traditional games that were organized for their entertainment. This game is believed to have been played at Ruphi Pathar in Rangpur during the reign of the Ahom kings. The Ahom kings enjoyed this game from above the Rangghar.

Types of Buffalo Fights

There are two different breeds of buffaloes participating in the Magh Bihu Moh-juj. Assamese and Adrangi (mixed origin). The Assamese bull has wide-mouthed horns, a broad forehead, and a large body. They raise their heads as soon as they see their opponents nearby. After the cowboy opens his nose, they try to hit each other with their horns by hitting each other on the forehead. But they don’t fight for long.

On the other hand, Adrangi Buffaloes can fight for a long time. Their horns are rounded. They try to hit each other in the throat. This fight is called ‘Caap-juj‘ in Lower Assam. The bull closes his eyes when he fights. Once a bull loses a fight, it does not fight another bull again when it grazes in the herd.

How it is Arranged

The buffaloes are bathed, dressed, and trained by the respective owners to lock horns in the fields. To prepare the buffaloes for these contests and events, the owners first train themselves to control the buffaloes appropriately, and also they practice before participating in the contest.

Some of the viewers bet on the game. The game is only played for fun. And the health and condition of the buffaloes are kept under strict observation by the organizers to ensure animal welfare and safety.

A buffalo dressed for a fight. Image by David Talukdar

Revival of Moh Juj After Years

When the Supreme Court banned Jallikattu and other similar events in Tamil Nadu, the Moh-Juj tradition was put on hold in 2015. Animal cruelty concerns were the main reason for the prohibition. After careful consideration and the publication of comprehensive SOPs, the Assam government, however, acknowledged the cultural significance of Moh-Juj and agreed to allow these events once more.

The traditional buffalo fights, known as Moh-Juj, have returned to Assam after a nine-year break. This rebirth is a major cultural reclamation in Assam and will take place at the Magh Bihu festival in mid-January 2024. Strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Assam government’s permission guarantee a balance between animal welfare and cultural preservation.

Cultural Significance

With strong roots in Assamese culture, Moh-Juj has long been an aspect of the Magh Bihu festival. In Assamese culture, along with representing bravery and strength, it keeps the festive spirits high. The village folk of Assam are usually engaged almost the whole year on the fields, and Magh Bihu is the only time for recreational activities and fun along with some good food and rest.

Moh-Juj is a type of event that not only brings joy and fun to the people but also helps the community to regain their zeal and enthusiasm to continue their hard work for another year. The adventurous spirits of buffalo fights or Moh-Juj help the people to come out of winter gloom and welcome enjoyment into their lives.

Disclaimer: Watching buffalo fight from a near distance can be risky. If you ever get a chance to watch a buffalo fight in real life, be alert and enjoy the fight from a far distance.