Gaan-Ngai celebrated at Delhi
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, January 30 2014:
Under the aegis of Zeliangrong Welfare Association, Delhi (ZWAD), Gaan-Ngai festival, 2014 was celebrated at New Delhi on 25th January, 2014 under the theme of "In Delhi's Melting Pot: Remembering our Roots" .
Delivering the key note address, Mathiupuang Gonmei, Vice-President of Zeliangrong Welfare Association, Delhi (ZWAD) and Assistant Registrar, IGNOU highlighted the significance of Gaan-Ngai festival.
He also emphasized the need for the North East people living in Delhi to be rooted in their cultural values and practices.
Samuel Madaliang, Social Worker lighted the 'Sacred Gaan-Ngai Fire' to formally inaugurate the celebration.
Speaking on the occasion, Samuel and expressed his happiness over the efforts being made by ZWAD to preserve and promote the fast eroding cultural practices.
He noted that the cultural heritage of the Zeliangrong people must be promoted amongst the youth in metropolis who face diverse challenges and confronts.
Tingenlung Pamei, President, All Zeliangrong Students Union (AMN), who also graced the occasion as a distinguished guest, reminded the congregation of the close interface between tribal cultural practices and their land and resources.
He underlined the need for the people to be aware of the controversial Land Acquisition Laws enacted by the State and the challenges they pose for the people in the North East particularly the tribals whose livelihood depends on their community control and ownership of land and resources.
During the celebration, Chung Kamei and Kaongamliang Riamei were declared as Miss and Mr.Gaan-Ngai 2014 respectively.