Ancestral traditions still alive at Andro
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 18 2014 :
Andro, one of the major original villages of the Chakpas is the proud inheritor of many great ancient traditions of their ancestors.
Arangpham Chaminnaba is one of the many great traditions which is still alive at Andro.
This reporter got a rare opportunity of witnessing and narrating the ancient tradition of Arangpham Chaminnaba on May 17 .
Andro, located about 25 Kms East of Imphal, has a population of about 9758 people.
The age old institutions of Khullakpa, Ahallup Pana Shang and Naharup Pana Shang are very much alive at the village.
There are two more institutions for Arangpham and Chakthongba (cook).
It is the duty of Arangpham to manage all kinds of religious activities including marriage ceremonies.
Catering at such gatherings is the responsibility of the Chakthongba.
Talking about Arangpham Chaminnaba, Andro Khullakpa (village chief) Chingakham Gandharaj said that such ceremony is held every three years.
It is a social gathering which marks retirement of one Arangpham and appointment of a new one.
Nowadays, tenure of Arangpham has been extended to four years.
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Before the advent of Christian era, there were 12 Chakpa villages on Longmaiching and all the ancient traditions which existed at that time are being followed till today.
Development and changes are another thing but ancient traditions and customs should be preserved and promoted always in order to protect one's identity, he said.
"Many Meiteis who worship sylvan deities come to Andro for research and they support Andro's culture and traditions.
Yet, it is worrying to observe some ancient traditions slowly fading into oblivion," the village chief said.
To a question, he said that Andro alone cannot keep alive the ancient traditions and culture of Meiteis, it needs collective effort.
Sharing of delicacies by all the villagers and merry making was the main feature of Arangpham Chaminnaba.
The villagers generally start arranging for the event two/three days ahead after dividing the duties between different village institutions.
People start gathering after the lunch and they would prepare Shingju and local beer (Waiyu) .
Arangphams would distribute shingju and beer to all the people gathered at the function.
Any Arangpham who could not attend the event should give prior information otherwise he would be fined.