Defying a biting cold wave mejis were burning bright to mark the magh bihu celebration across the state on Thursday.

Amid traditional pomp and gaiety, people in Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat districts lit up the wooden mejis early in the morning after the whole night feasting and merriment.

Traditional straw mejis were lit up in Kamrup, Nalbari, Sonitpur, Barpeta, BTAD areas along with other parts of the state offering pujas to the god of fire. Local people in large thronged the burning mejis seeking divine help from the fire god.

Cultural programmes, traditional games and competitions and are lined up for the entire day. Home made sweets, beaten rice, pastries are being served in every household to mark the much vaunted harvest festival.