Dimapur, Jan. 20 (EMN): Rongmei community celebrated its post-harbest festival ‘Chakaan Gaan Ngai’ on January 17 with Tovihoto Ayemi, advisor of Power and chairman, DPDB, Dimapur, as special guest at Chungaizaeng Rongmei Colony, Burma Camp, Dimapur.
The festival was organised by Rongmei Council Nagaland (RCN) on the theme “Celebrating culture and identity.”
Speaking on the occasion, Ayemi urged the gathering to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Rongmei people, who are indigenous of Nagaland, Manipur and Assam. He said celebration of Chakaan Gaan Ngai festival should be an occasion for forgiveness, peace and prosperity. He called upon the community to introspect shortcomings of the past and to look forward for better future.
Stating that PDA government is a pro-people, he said the government is concerned about wastage of government funds in maintaining VIP culture and instead decided to invest in development of the state.
Aye also unveiled the plaque of Rongmei customary court on the occasion.
The programme started with a prayer offered by Pouhourei Gangmei, pastor of Rongmei Baptist Fellowship, Chummukedima, while G Chingkhiulung, RNC president, welcomed the gathering and delivered the Chakkan Gaan Ngai greetings.
The festival was marked by traditional way of igniting new fire, cultural dances, display of drum beats, indigenous games and sports and evening extravaganza. John Dangmei and Kachekmunlu Gangmei were adjudged Mr and Miss Chakkan Gaan Ngai 2019 respectively.
