Chandel, October 29: The 5th Sirti Thamna Enii also known as Monsang Day of Prayer 2023 was observed at Liwa Khullen Community Hall, Chandel on Sunday, under the aegis of Sirti Upa Ruh (Monsang Tribe Union), the apex body of the Monsang tribe.
Upa Th. Vincent Warnong, Local Catechist, St. Dominic Catholic Church, Liwa-Khullen and Upa Rev. John Khartu, Evangelist, Japhou Baptist Church were the main celebrants of the prayer observation day.
Also Read | Investment, Air connectivity, Trade talks on day two of 3rd North East India Festival in Vietnam
Upa Ng. Benithan, President, SUR in his welcome and key note address welcomed important dignitaries and all the public for attending the historic occasion of the community. He also acknowledged and thanked the Monsang elders and leaders who led the Monsang people socially, politically and religiously thus far. The main purpose of observing ‘Sirti Thamna Enii’ is to give thanks to God, and seek God’s blessing for Monsang people through collective community prayer irrespective of religious denominations and affiliation, he stated.
The ‘Monsang Day of Prayer’ is held on 29th October every year. It may be mentioned that the Monsang tribe got recognition as scheduled tribe on 29th October 1956 by the Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs. As such, 29th October is chosen every year as ‘Monsang Day of Prayer’ by Sirti Upa Ruh (Monsang Tribe Union) since the inception of the idea and observation of the 1st Sirti Thamna Enii at Japhou village in 2019.
The auspicious ‘Monsang Day of Prayer 2023’ was attended by many Monsang citizens across all Monsang villages and churches. Monsang leaders from SUR, SER, SSR, STS, MOA, MLLS, SOA, church leaders, village chiefs, women leaders, and student leaders attended the programme in Monsang traditonal attires.
Also Read | Manipur celebrates Mera Houchongba 2023 signifying brotherly bond between communities
The occasion moderated by Upa Sh. Beshani, Vice President SUR started with invocation prayer by Upa Ng. Johnson, Local Catechist, Holy Cross Catholic Church Monsang Pantha. The singspiration team was led by Women Society of St. Dominic Church, Liwa Khullen. Monsang beautiful special nos were presented by Upa Ts. Angchung, Liwachangning Women Fellowship and Liwa Sarei Youth Club. Japhou Baptist Church, Children Sunday School presented a beautiful choreography, much to the delight of the audience.
The congregation led by the main celebrants offered special prayer particularly for peace, prosperity and development of the Monsang tribe. Upa Ng. Longly, Secretary, Assembly Affairs, SUR in his vote of thanks appreciated all the participating members for support and love towards the community. The prayer day program ended with closing prayer by Upa W. Molali, Licentiate Pastor, Changnhe Baptist Church, MNBCA.
Must read | Meitei NGOs Exploiting Tribal Development Funds: ITLF
