Gaan Ngai festival kicks off amid razzmatazz
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 13 2014 :
Gaan Ngai, the biggest festival of the Zeliangrong community began today and it would be celebrated for full five days in all Zeliangrong inhabited areas of Manipur, Assam and Nagaland.
This year's State level Gaan Ngai festival is being celebrated at Keikhu and it was officially opened by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam.
Gaan Ngai festival is a fine blending of lively music, rhythmic traditional dance and colourful attires.
It is a festival of merry making and healthy competition in sports.
The State level celebration began with the traditional Meiba Chingba (igniting fire by blowing air) after which the chief guest, the president and the guest of honour lit up the ceremonial lamps.
The State level celebration was also attended by leaders of different communities including Meiteis and Pangals (Manipuri Muslims) .
|
The Meiteis came in procession bringing gifts as a testimony of the filial relationship shared between the two communities.
Speaking at the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam called upon all the communities of Manipur to help and support each other for collective growth and development.
Manipur celebrates one festival or another every month for each and every community of the State have many significant and beautiful festivals.
It is the duty of all the communities to see that the atmosphere of peace and harmony is never disturbed, Gaikhangam exhorted.
PHED Minister I Hemochandra who graced the function as guest of honour announced that a water supply scheme would be taken up at Keikhu at the cost of Rs two crore.
Industries Minister K Govindas too declared that a work shed would be constructed at Keikhu.
Parliamentary Secretary Md Amin Shah, MLA TN Haokip and MLA Janghemlung Panmei were also seated on the dais as guests of honour.
Hill Areas Committee Vice-Chairman Z Kikonbou Newmai presided the function.