Dy CM calls for peace and unity on Gaan-Ngai celebration
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, January 13 2014 : The celebration of the biggest post-harvest festival of the Zeliangrong Community "Gaan-Ngai" has begun with much charm and fanfare in the State from today.

The state-level celebration was held at Keikhu Kabui Village in Imphal East with Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam as Chief Guest.

Ritual ceremonies and exchange of gifts between the villagers and the major community Meiteis specifically marked the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Gaikhangam said that Manipur is a colourful land inhabited by people belonging to different communities.

All people must strive to preserve and promote the rich culture and tradition of the State.

There should be no hatred or biasness among the people.

The State should be able to move towards achieving the goals of peace, harmony and development, the Deputy CM noted.

He further said that there are many festivals of different communities in the State.

All people must participate in each other's festivals to build up trust and brotherhood among different communities.

The Gaan-Ngai festival should help to bring peace and harmony in the State.

Gaikhangam also announced that a work-shed for handloom and handicraft would be constructed at Keikhu Kabui Village soon.

Attending as Guest of Honour, PHE Minister I Hemochandra said that the State Government is planning to set up a water supply scheme at Keikhu Village for an estimated cost of about Rs.two crore within a short period.

The celebration was also attended by Commerce and Industries Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Parliamentary Secretary Md Amin Shah, MLAs TN Haokip, Janghemlung Panmei and Kikhonbou Newmai. Leaders of civil society organizations of the State also attended the celebration.

Various cultural songs and dances of the Zeliangrong Community were also shown showcased during the celebration.

Gaan-Ngai was also celebrated at Nambol Naorem Kabui Village with MLA of Nambol A/C N Loken as Chief Guest and Vice-President of UCM Kh Chandramani as President.

President of Gaan-Ngai Celebration Committee Poudongai Kamson, senior citizen Golmei Abung and Councillors of Nambol Municipal Council namely Mohan, Kongkham Brozen and Pateshori.

Speaking on the occasion, MLA Loken appealed to all to shed off communal feelings and work together for a peaceful and progressive state.

The celebration of Gaan-Ngai festival which lasted for five days has various rites and features such as prayer, worship, feasting, singing, dancing, games and sports including long-jump, shot-pot, wrestling, bull-catching, pig-catching, felicitation dances in honour of the living persons and farewell dances for the departed souls.

This festival, according to traditions, originated thousands of years ago at the ancient village of Makuilongdi, as a revelation of God for the wellbeing of mankind.

It was originally called "Chaga-Ngai.

The Zeliangrong tribes believe this festival brings good fortune and prosperity for individuals as well as the community and country.

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