'Thazing Lap' fest
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 27 2012:
The first state level Thazing Lap, a festival of the Vaiphei tribe, was celebrated today at Salam Patong village in Sadar Hills amidst fanfare with the theme Cultural Revival for Future Survival.
The celebration function was graced by MP Thangso Baite, MLA Manga Vaiphei, S Minlianthang Vaiphei, IAS and president of Vaiphei Peoples' Council, General Headquarters, Khatkhothang Vaiphei as the chief guest, president, guest of honour and chief host respectively.
Rev S Prim Vaiphei said the Thazing lap is an important festival (Kut) of the Vaiphei tribe, a festival which is exclusive to the Vaipheis.
The word 'Thazing', in Vaiphei, means autumn while 'lap' means prior to/until/before the coming.
Literally, 'Thazing lap' means the festival that is celebrated till the onset of Autumn.
It is a recreational post sowing festival that takes place after the entire sowing process including weeding, clearing and burning of fields, transplanting and sowing of paddy is completed during the 'Muktha' or summer monsoon season.
The Vaipheis from all over the State including Churachandpur, Chandel, Imphal and Sadar Hills took part in the celebration.