Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut' celebrated
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kangpokpi, October 19 2021:
Heralding the arrival of Kukis' much-awaited premier festival Chavang Kut, Gangpijang's Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut' (mother of modern Kut) culminated in style after three days of joyous celebration at Gangpijang village in Kangpokpi district.
The three day Diamond Jubilee celebration of Gangpijang's Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut began on October 16.October 17 was observed as Kut Niloupi Nikho' - the main celebration day.
Haoginlen Chongloi, one of the organising committee members and the author of 'History, Identity and Polity of the Kukis', one of the most read books among the Kukis as well as other communities, told the gathering that the Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut was first celebrated way back in 1961 and it was considered the 'Mother of Modern Kut' and this year's celebration marked its 60th year celebration.
On the main celebration day, Gangpijang village chief Paolam Haokip unveiled the Diamond Jubilee celebration monolith, which was dedicated by Rev Ngamkhopao Lhungdim, Pastor KBC No 19 .
A souvenir published to mark the Diamond Jubilee celebration of the festival was released by Mangpu Khongsai, MPS, and it was dedicated by Rev Dr Jangkholam Haokip, director Bethesda Khankho Institute, Churachandpur.
Before the three-day long event commenced, Chavang Golseh' (sports) starting from September 27 was held with five Lompi (groups) competing in various Puchon Pachon (traditional) sports and recreational activities to keep alive the tradition.
The festival was celebrated only for merrymaking but it served as a platform to exhibit and educate the younger generation about the values and essence of their tradition and culture.
Haoginlen Chongloi further said that among all the Kuts celebrated in Manipur, Gangpijang Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut is considered the oldest Kut celebration and it is also believed that all the modern Kuts celebrated nowadays came into existence from Gangpijang Chavang Anthah Lhun Kut.
Mention may be made that Chavang Kut, a post-harvest festival of the Kukis and one of the biggest and prominent festivals in Manipur, is celebrated on November 1 every year.