Zeliangrong's Gaan-Ngai kicks off
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, January 18, 2011:
Gaan-Ngai, the biggest festival of the Zeliangrong people began today.
A grand opening function was held at BOAT, Palace Compound as well as at the Zeliangrong building, Paona Bazar.
The opening function at Zeliangrong building was organized by the Zeliangrong Union in association with Zeliangrong Youth Front under the theme "Preservation of Indigenous Traditional Festivals of Zeliangrong".
The festival began with the ritual slaughter of animals for 'Pei'.
The heralding of the New Year began with the producing of fire by rubbing dry wood and split bamboo pieces followed by the lighting of the ceremonial light with the fire so produced.
ZU's president lit the ceremonial light.
Meijinglung Kamei, former union minister and also former president of ZU, Amu Kamei, incumbent president, Goujairung Thaimei, vice president of Zeliangrong Cultural Committee, K Ajaina, chief of Ragailong village, K Lanbonglung, chief of Mahabali Kabui Khul, K Bokul, chairman of ZU, Imphal Zone, Pourilbung Kamei, Pei member of Khakhulong, Kajeichung Kamei adorned the dais in the opening function.
Speaking on the occasion, Amu Kamei observed that different communities residing in the state of Manipur have started efforts to preserve their traditions and cultures which had been on the verge of extinction due to the influence of Christianity and Hinduism.
He said the religions, traditions and cultures of many small communities have vanished.
Luckily, Zeliangrongs have been able to preserve some of its traditions and culture.
He wished a happy prosperous life to the people of Manipur and to the Zeliangrong people residing in Manipur, Assam and Nagaland.
Meijinglung Kamson reminded the origin of the festival.
The festival is related with the worship of Tingkao Ragwang, the Almighty God as a thanks-giving for a good harvest and along with prayers for success and long life in the coming year.
The main attraction of the opening ceremony held at BOAT was the traditional dance competition of womenfolk of Kabui hamlets in Imphal areas.