Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 19:
The Governor Dr SS Sidhu and chief Minister O Ibobi Singh have conveyed greetings to the people of manipur and the Zeliangrong community in particular on the auspicious and joyous occasion of the Gaan-Ngai festival which will be celebrated for five days beginning tomorrow.
greeting the people of the arrival of Gaan-Ngai the Governor reminded that a festival, besides being an occasion of joy and merriment, provides an opportunity to come together, cutting across the barriers of caste, creed and religion and work for 'our shared goal ensuring peace and harmony in the society.
"In the celebration of a festival, the edifice of oneness gets strengthened and this bond of oneness is a necessity," Dr Sidhu expressed.
Glorifying the living together of various ethnic groups in harmony for ages, the Governor exuded confidence that every community in manipur will contribute their mite in sustaining the tradition.
"I trust the that Gaan-Ngai will be celebrated in its true spirit," he added.
Gaan-Ngai, one of the principal festivals of the Zeliangrong community is a celebration of the winter season after harvest, read the Chief Minister's message adding: "I hope celebration of Gaan-Ngai will imbibe the message of peace, friendship and forgiveness among ourselves and above all acknowledge the giver of all these blessings".
Tingkao Ragwang Chap-Riak chabon Phom (Assam, manipur and Nagaland), Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, Zeliangrong Baudi and Meetei Erol Eyek Loinasillon Apunba Lup also conveyed their warm greetings to the people on the advent of Gaan-Ngai festival.