Cultural gala marks Chavang Kut
Differences should be settled through peaceful talks, not through violence: Gurbachan Jagat
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 01 2012: Along with a cultural extravaganza, the biggest post-harvest festival of the Kuki-Mizo-Chin-Zomi group of people, 'Chavang Kut- 2012' was celebrated under the aegis of State Level Kut Committee, Manipur at the parade ground of Ist Manipur Rifles here today.

Inaugurating the celebration as Chief Guest, Governor Gurbachan Jagat described Kut as a harbinger of peace, harmony and progress and observed that Kuki-Chin-Mizo-Zomi group of people has their own unique and distinct cultural heritage which is reflected in their various festivals.

The Governor observed that Kut as a festival provides an opportunity not only for merry making but also to introspect the past and plan for the future.

Participation in the festival not only by the Kuki-Mizo-Chin-Zomi group but also by other communities strengthen the bonds of friendship among the different groups of people living in the State.

Miss Kut, 2012 Kimhoithiem Gracy Haokip being flanked by Ist runner up Khagembam Padmabati (R) and 2nd runner up Nameirakpam Sinthangambi ; Five other sub-titles were also awarded in the contest ; The sub-title winners are Graceton Thangal (Photogenic), Yumnam Kalpana ( Beautiful Hair), Sarina Naorem (Beautiful Eyes), Sushmita Chakraborty (Miss Congeniality) and Rosy Khongsai (Best Designer)

Nonetheless, the Governor noted, "Manipur, as everyone knows is full of problems and rifts are being created between communities challenging the age-old tradition of peaceful co-existence.

These gulfs rather than being narrowed are being widened.

In such an environment, the growth curve is stymied, even though the State has huge potential.

"Let us set aside our differences and resolve not to resort to bandhs and blockades as it severely affects the poorer section of the society more.

Let us cast aside our self centered egos and policies of the various ethnic groups and work for the overall welfare of the State", he added.

Speaking on the occasion as Guest of Honour, Home Minister Gaikhangam prayed to Almighty to bring peace, prosperity and integrity in Manipur with celebration of the festival.

He observed that although Manipur is a small State it is inhabited by people of different caste and creeds rich in culture, tradition and discipline since very long time, and it has been shining bright among the powerful states of the country.

Not only in terms of culture and tradition but also in the field of sports, Manipur stands atop others.

The Home Minister also also expressed gratification over seeing hundreds of people from different communities of the State congregating to participate in Kut festival.

Dr Chaltolien Amo, chairman, State Level Kut Committee, MLAs, other Parliamentary Secretaries and officials of various State Government Departments also took part at the function.

Altogether 20 contingents from different communities participated at the celebration performing different lively song and dances.

In the evening function, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, Education Minister M Okendro, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Francis Ngajokpa and IFCD Minister Ngamgthang Haokip were present.

In his address, Chief Minister Ibobi appealed for peace and harmony in Manipur and said that no group should work against the interest of a particular community but rather maintain communal harmony.

Even though Manipur is a tiny State, it is known as a mini India by many because of its multifarious communities and that in the over 2000 years of its history, it has witnessed co-existence among different communities, the Chief Minister said.

He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the State Level Kut Committee, Manipur for inviting him to the event as well as for organizing it.

Our Kakching correspondent adds: Kut, the post harvesting festival of Chin-Kuki-Mizo communities was also celebrated in Chandel district today.

District Level Kut Committee, Chandel organised the festival under the theme "Kut for Unity and Diversity" at the Molnoi Khulmi Ground.

MP, Outer Manipur Parliamentary Constituency, Thangso Baite graced the celebration as Chief Guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Thangso Baite observed that Chandel district will remain as an ideal place where people of different communities live peacefully with a sense of brotherhood and oneness.

Describing Chandel as a mini model of Manipur, the MP observed that even though Chandel and Tamenglong districts are most economically backward districts in the state, Chandel still has its own fame of culturally rich tradition and social activities.

Ex MLA Thangkhulun Haokip, Chief of Chehlep village Holkhophai Haokip and DC Chandel, Th Chittaranjan also present on the occasion as dais members.