Festivals bring together people of Manipur

In Manipur, celebration of different festivals bring people together and gave out a message of peace and unity besides promoting the indigenous cultures.

Living in the tri-junction of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland, Zeliangrong people gather in Senapati district for five days to celebrate Gaan Ngai, a post-harvest festival.

Cultural performances and traditional rituals marked the celebrations at Mahakabui Namching village.

Irrespective of caste and community, the festival was also celebrated in different parts of the north-east through singing, dancing, games and merrymaking

It aims to spread good will and peace and preserve the cultural identity besides celebrating the arrival of New Year.

Naomi, a visitor here, said the people from different tribes have come here.

"I feel very happy and I really enjoyed this function. It has been very long since I came to celebrate Gann Ngai but this year I came here and I am enjoying. I see so many people from different tribes like Meitei and Nepalis at the function. I feel very happy seeing this and I think Manipur will be a peaceful state through such festivals," he added.

Hemnath Adhikari, a local here, said that it is a very good event.

"I am feeling very good. It's such a big event. So many ministers have come and it is very entertaining," he added.

The Meitei community in Manipur also came together to celebrate Imoinu Iratpa Day, the traditional worship of the Goddess of wealth Ema Imoinu by making offerings to the deity.

The streets of greater Imphal and valley districts were brightly decorated with colorful lights and people came out in large numbers to mark the festival.

As a part of the celebration, various cultural items were showcased including melodious performance by Pena artists.

Yumnam Sadananda Singh, a devotee here, said that it is a good opportunity for the youth to know their culture.

"Organizing such festivals is very useful for the youth. Today itself thousands of youth have come here and witnessed this festival and the value of Imoinu Iratpa," he added.

Celebration of festivals plays an important role in promoting the cultural legacy of the indigenous communities besides fostering a spirit of unity among the people.