AZACO for propriety in traditional wears
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 03 2019: The All Zeliangrong Art and Cultural Organisation (AZACO) has appealed to all the people not to wear Zeliangrong costumes and traditional dresses in inappropriate manner and untimely occasions.

Speaking to media persons at Chingmeirong Kabui Khul today, AZACO president Poudongai Kasom said that a very awkward scene was witnessed when a Kabui dance was presented as a part of the Moirang Thangjing Haraoba on June 1 .

Even though the particular dance item was said to be Kabui traditional dance, female costumes were worn by male dancers and vice versa.

Moreover, phaneks worn by female dancers appeared to be Kabui traditional phanek outwardly but also closer examination revealed that it was not the original Kabui traditional phanek, Poudongai said.

In addition, additional colours were added in the traditional costume as if everything is permissible, he rued.

Of all the 30 or so hill communities of Manipur including those clubbed within the Zeliangrong family, it is only Kabui (Rongmei) community who are still following the indigenous religion while all others have embraced Christianity, he said.

"Since time immemorial, Kabuis have been safeguarding their culture, religion and identity and we still believe in Tingkao Ragwang (supreme God)," Poudongai said.

On the other hand, Kabui and Meitei have many similarity in terms of history, religious rites and rituals, culture and traditions.

Of all the communities settled together in the State, Meitei's dressing style is most elegant.

They have separate sets of dresses for different occasions such as wedding ceremony, Shrada ceremony and other occasions.

Moreover, Meiteis have distinctive garments for males and females, he observed.

Likewise, Kabuis have distinctive garments for males and females and they have different sets of wardrobe for different occasions.

Kabuis have no objection when other communities wear their traditional dresses.

"Rather it is a matter of pride for the Kabui community but we would like to appeal to all to wear Kabui dresses at the right place and in proper manner", said the AZACO president.

He also appealed to actors and artistes including film and Shumang Leela directors to consult appropriate authorities if they must portray Kabui religion, culture, traditional dances, lifestyle etc in any part of their productions.

For matters related to Kabui indigenous religion, the most appropriate authority is the Tingkao Ragwang Chapriak Phom while AZACO is an appropriate authority in matters related to Kabui culture and traditions, he pointed out.

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