Mangkang Festival / 14th General Conference kicks off
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 05 2024:
The inaugural function of the Northern Maram Women Organisation (NMWO) Mangkang Festival cum 14th General Conference was held yesterday at Maram Lumshyiipou (Lairouching) Village.
Speaking as the chief guest, Saka Martha Chawang expressed that with an aim to promote this traditional women festival, it is now being celebrated at different villages under the aegis of Northern Maram Women Organisation.
The chief guest appreciated the sincere efforts of the past leaders to revive this traditional festival, said a press release by NMWO general secretary.
In his greetings, Maram Union President (i/c), Pungdi P Celestine said that though Mankhang Psii-ha dance is unique and beautiful, there are more significance associated with this Maram Women Mangkang festival.
He went on to state that Mangkang Festival is celebrated based on the Maram lunar calendar on the 4th (fourth) day of the new month of Tingpuikii, with preceding 3- days observed in rituals and other practices as preparation for the Mangkhang festival.
Celestine drew an analogy of sharing one's own available resources to the needy people during this traditional festival.
Stating that this traditional festival signifies replacing old values with new ones, Celestine maintained that women do household works, cleans up kitchen wares, replace old-wooden spoons, traditional cooking stones, etc with new ones.
Saying that Maram forefathers were prosperous as they strictly adhered to norms and practices to please their supreme God, Celestine said on the third day, early in the morning not only ritual food was offered in households to the Almighty.
He appealed to the younger generation to carry forward the rich and unique legacy of their forefathers.
Later, in the noon session, Maram Students' Union president, Rangshung Robin extended his greetings and Maram Women Union President, RS Taipi spoke on 'Women and Religion' .
As a part of the festival, cultural programmes and competitions are also being held.
This 14th Mangkang Festival cum General Conference scheduled from May 3-6 is being organised under the presidentship of Rana Jenish T with Kanga Regina as the convenor.