Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 16, 2010:
In a noble and symbolic gesture ever shown to yorla (married woman of a church/village), the MLA of Ukhrul A/C Danny Shaiza in coordination with United Hunphun Phungcham Youth Front (UHPYF) organised a grand feast at Rishing Hall Alungtang, Ukhrul yesterday.
During the big feast which was also organised in commemoration with Luira/Lui-ngai-ni (seed sowing festival), as a token of love, Shaiza presented a traditional shawl each to all the participants (yorlas) numbering 430 who have been married to different communities like Meitei, Ao, Sema, Angami, Lotha, Anal, Kabui, Kuki and Tangkhul of different villages.
Speaking as chief guest of the event, Shaiza said, �yorkhom (a grand feast of yorlas) played a significant role in our society in the olden days as it is the time when all the yorlas get together and share their joy and emotion,� adding �it is a dismay today that the meaning of this special day for the yorlas/pukreilas who used to stand out with courage in times of war and conflict has become obscure�.
The chief guest observed that such a special day of showing love among brothers and sisters should be preserved and women as in the olden days should act as �negotiator and peace keeper� in the society.
The oldest amongst the Yorla participants stated that she was totally moved and touched by the loving gesture shown by the Hunphun brothers by inviting them to such an auspicious occasion and expressed her desire that Yorlas should also repay to such an important event by playing a positive role in the society in the times to come.
The event was organised as a part of UHPYF silver jubilee celebration which was inaugurated by the Headman of Hungphun/Ukhrul HA Wungrampan who performed the seed sowing ritual to bless the occasion.
The day was also marked by performing Hokharai, traditional dances, songs and indigenous games.