4th Cosmos Flower Festival kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express
Senapati, October 06 2024:
The picturesque meadow of Naamai Zho have come alive with the grand opening of the 4th Cosmos Flower Festival 2024, a celebration of the vibrant and resilient Cosmos flower.
The month-long festival was inaugurated in the presence of the chief guest, Col Sandeep Sharma, Commandant, 16 AR and guest of honor Shanngam S, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Senapati Forest Division.
On the occasion, the Senapati DFO asserted that the Cosmos flower, which is a symbol of love and unity, is deeply engraved in the memories and traditions of the local community.
The festival serves as a platform to reminisce about the flower's cultural relevance, where the male suitor traditionally proposes to his beloved with a Cosmos bloom, signifying acceptance.
The Cosmos bloom is a message of collective effort and the beauty of oneness, he mentioned.
Meanwhile, in his inaugural address, Colonel Sandeep Sharma highlighted the transformative power of flowers while stating that flowers bring a sense of peace to the people.
He lauded the efforts of the Naamai Eco-Tourism Society (NETS) in organizing the festival and pledged his support for any future activities undertaken by the society, echoing its tagline, "Friends of the Hills".
The evening was filled with captivating performances, as popular musical band Lost and Found from Senapati enthralled the enthusiastic crowd with their energetic renditions.
The stage was further graced by the talented Ziikhu Titus Tyaletya, a rising star from the Poumai community along with Ng Atoznah, Reihvei Bernard and Rang Stifler belting out the crowds' favourite.
The 4th Cosmos Flower Festival promises to be a celebratory event, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, while fostering unity and a deep appreciation for the enduring Cosmos flower.
Notably, the Organising Committee has informed that the month-long festival will continue with 3 Men's Open Volleyball Championship and angling on October 12, housie and lucky draw on October 13, a Poumai traditional food fest on October 19 and poker tournament with Cosmos Night on October 26 .