Call for peace marks Kut fest
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 01 2012:
Kut, the biggest post-harvest festival of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group, was celebrated today at 1st MR Parade Ground amid much fanfare and gusto.
Governor Gurbachan Jagat graced the noon session as the chief guest.
Observance of two-minute silence to departed leaders and members of the Kut communities and display of cultural dances from all tribes of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group marked the noon session.
The glamourous Miss Kut beauty pageant and spirited performances of various renowned artists including the recently revived Phynyx took the celebration spirit to a livelier and exuberant state.
The evening session was graced by Chief Minister O Ibobi as the chief guest.
Addressing the enthusiastic Kutters, Governor Gurbachan Jagat called upon the people to ensure that the differences among the communities of the State be settled through talks and negotiation and not to resort to violence including bandhs and blockades, which severely impact on the poorer section of the society.
Calling upon the people to cast aside self-centred egos and policies of the various ethnic groups, the Governor also urged the people to work for the overall welfare of the State.
Noting that the rifts among the different communities of the State are posing a challenge to the age-old tradition of peaceful coexistence, the Head of the State maintained that the growth curve is stymied despite the State having huge potential.
Maintaining that emotional integrity cannot be achieved in a single day though a start is needed in order to bank on it, Gurbachan stated that Kut is the time to start it as it exemplifies gratefulness, compassion and gaiety.
He further exuded confidence that the celebration would not only help in promoting collective identity of the Kuki-Mizo-Chin brethren, but also spread the message of peace, love, communal harmony, friendship and brotherhood amongst the different communities in the NE and Manipur in particular.
Home Minister Gaikhangam urged all concerned to preserve and promote the age-old cultures for posterity.
He also preached for peaceful coexistence among all communities of the State.
Among others, the celebration was also attended by Health Minister Phungzathang Tonsing; Commerce and Industries Minister, Govindas Konthoujam; Minister Ngamthang Haokip various Parliamentary Secretaries, MLAs and high level civil and police officers of the State Government.