Tulsa, Nov 15: The Kuki International Forum (KIF) Annual Meeting and 2006 Chavang Kut celebration was held in Tulsa, Oklahoma state, in the United States of America on November 11. The Kut program, which started at 3:00 P.M. local time, was open by striking a large hanging 'gong' seven times. Pastor Thangchon, who traveled from Nagaland state in northeast India, graced the program as Kut Pa (Kut Father).

Thangchon explained the different Kuts. He said, "We the Kukis in Nagaland celebrate 'Mim Kut' every year." Retired Brigadier General Dick Freeman, who is pleased to be called "Kuki Pu," shared his recent visit to India with the passionate mission of helping orphans.


Asian Baptist Church members performing a folk dance called "Chunga Pathen Silung Ching".

Rev. Dr. Chin Do Kham, Assistant Professor of Oral Roberts University, stressed the need for unity within the same ethnic group of people who have been divided by the international boundaries of Bangladesh, Burma and India.

The gathering was also addressed by the Chairman of Kuki Movement for Human Rights and General Secretary of Zomi Innkuan USA. Leaders who spoke at the occasion emphasized the need to strengthen cooperation and unity among the same group of people despite nomenclature preferences.

Suggestion for organizing a seminar - where distinguished leaders and academics from the same group of people in Bangladesh, Burma and India could come together - was the wish of the speakers.

KIF Advisor Dr. Seikam, who moderated the program, introduced a variety of performances that were enthralling. Dancing, singing and competition in Kuki dialects were some of the favorite of the day.

The most apparent challenge for many of the youngster Kukis was counting number 1 to 20 in their own language. A topic on "intermarriage" was also debated with proponent and opponent taking their turn on stage.

Members of Asian Baptist Church performed folk dance called "Chunga Pathen Silung Ching" at the opening and closing part of the day's event.

The entire program was celebrated with the spirit of love and gaiety. Kut feast was served to all.

Both the President and General Secretary of the KIF thanked 2006 Chavang Kut host families and friends who made the program a success.

Check out the picture of the event here.