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DIMAPUR — Chega Gadi, the premier festival of the Zeliang people especially Liangmai community, began on Wednesday in Nzau village under Tening sub-division of Peren district with Rajya Sabha MP, S. Phangnon Konyak, and MLA Imtichuba Chang as the special guests.
Speaking at the event, the chief host, MLA and chairman of Peren DPDB, Namri Nchang, emphasised that it is time to encourage the youngsters through such celebrations to promote and preserve one's own dialect and cultural custom. He urged the gathering to celebrate the festival by knowing its deep meaning and roots of the festival.
He further added that culture and tradition is a belief of one’s tribe/ community, which is not to profess as a religion but to preserve its roots and identity, a DIPR report stated.
Addressing the gathering as a special guest, Phangnon Konyak greeted the community and thanked them for inviting her on the auspicious occasion. She encouraged the people to take pride in one's own culture and identity and strive forward with great initiative and motives for better future.
Others who spoke in the event included MLA of Tuensang Sardar-II, Imtichuba Changm and the deputy commissioner of Peren, Hiazu Meru.
The welcome address was delivered by NZPO president, Zandi Domta, while the assistant professor of Central Institute Hindi Agra, Dimapur Centre, Dr. Thunbui, highlighted the significance of Chaga and the vice president of BJP Nagaland unit, Hurui, delivered the vote of thanks.
The pastor of Town Baptist Church, Tening, Rev. Kamwang Rentta, offered prayer for guidance and strength as the community marked the special occasion.
The festival featured a rich display of folk songs, cultural dances and presentation. The celebration would culminate on October 31.