Gaan-Ngai Festival Kicks Off in Manipur with Vibrant Celebrations and Messages of Unity
The Gaan-Ngai festival, the largest cultural and religious celebration of the Zeliangrong community, began today with grandeur and enthusiasm in various parts of Manipur. Known for its vibrant cultural performances and ancient rituals, the festival unites people in celebration of tradition and togetherness.
Chief Minister N Biren Singh attended the state-level celebration at Sagolband Ramji Kabui Village in Imphal West, extending his heartfelt wishes to the people of Manipur. The event saw mesmerizing performances, with men, women, and youth participating in the joyous festivities.
In his address, Biren emphasized the importance of Gaan-Ngai as a central festival for the Zeliangrong community, one of the oldest tribes of Manipur. He also expressed his delight in celebrating the event with the people, wishing the community a successful festival. “The Gaan-Ngai Festival is central to the Zeliangrong community, and it is my pleasure to celebrate this event at the state level with all of you,” he said. He also proposed the idea of hosting the festival at Sangai Ethnic Park from next year, a place that symbolizes the diverse heritage of Manipur.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the significant progress made in Tamenglong, which was once one of the most underdeveloped districts of the state. He pointed to improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and water supply, attributing these positive changes to the efforts of the state government. Biren also announced plans for a permanent mall at Sangai Ethnic Park, with a Rs 100 crore proposal from the central government currently under consideration. He stressed the need for collective efforts and unity to address challenges across the state. “Let us unite as one community to address the challenges our state faces,” he urged.
MLA Dinganglung Gangmei of Nungba AC also extended his warm wishes to the Zeliangrong community and the people of Manipur, hoping that the festival would mark a new era of peace, joy, and unity for the state.
Asinpu Gangmei, a social worker from the Zeliangrong community, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the significance of the festival in fostering healing and bringing a fresh start to the state, which has faced ethnic tensions in recent times. He called for dialogue between conflicting communities to restore peace and normalcy.
The five-day Gaan-Ngai festival marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one, carrying hopes for peace, prosperity, and unity for the people of Manipur.
