Ukhrul: Hunphun Katamnao Long, under the aegis of Hunphun Hanga Wungnao, kickstarts the celebration of Hunphun Luira̱ Phanit under the theme “Ngashan Hi Pangshapna” at Mission Ground, Alungtang.
Luira̱ Phanit, the seed sowing festival, is one of the most important and longest agricultural festivals of the Tangkhul community. A festival to invoke the Creator’s blessings upon the seeds that are to be sown and for the crops for a bountiful harvest.
Alfred Kanngam Arthur, Ex-MLA of 44-Ukhrul Assembly Constituency, attended the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest. Dr. Lucy Shaiza, CMO of Kamjong District, and Timwom L Shimray, President Hunphun Shanao Long, were the guests of honor and special guests respectively.
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The Chief Guest, Alfred Kanngam Arthur, hoisted the flag and lauded the initiative of Hunphun Katamnao Long, Hunphun Hanga Wungnao, and the Organizing Committee for preserving and promoting the rich culture and tradition of Hunphun. He recalled the contributions made by Hunphunnao in the past for the betterment and upliftment of the Tangkhul community and questioned the gathering about the roles being played today by present Hunphunnao.
“What do you have today? What joy is there, in one year if we live 364 days in shame? Our God has created, identified, and chosen Hunphun as the epicenter and happening place for all the Tangkhul community. There should be no “Khaminao” in the jurisdiction of Hunphun. Hunphun tui is the official dialect of the Tangkhul community, and it is accepted by everyone willingly. Therefore, Hunphun has a responsibility to the people. Hunphun should be the birthplace of faith, love, unity, and education for the Tangkhul community. If a big village like Hunphun cannot lead the way, the future for Tangkhul is next to impossible,” lamented Alfred Kanngam Arthur.
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He continued, “let us ponder, how many Hunphunnao or Tangkhulnao have come back to their place and volunteered to contribute and build their society? None. Beyond the chair or position we are holding, we have failed to pay back to society. This is the reason why we are lacking in everything. I really want Hunphun to take a course correction and lead the Tangkhul to a better future. Remember, Christianity came to Hunphun in 1896. It takes time to completely make the whole Tangkhul a Christian village. I appeal to the Hunphun Authority to take steps and measures to make way for a better tomorrow. This is my earnest appeal to one and all.”
“For the Tangkhul community, Luira̱ Phanit and Christmas are the two most important festivals. These two important festivals should be celebrated with all seriousness. Allow me to suggest, If we can start contributing or start collecting Rs.1 per day per household for a year. And through the amount received from contributions, we can celebrate Luira̱ and Christmas in a much bigger and dignified way. Contribution by the people, celebration of the festival for the people, and celebrating the festival as the voice of the people. Have pride in your humility. Have pride in your Creator. Have pride in your blessing. I wish everyone a blessed year and a bountiful harvest,” added Alfred Kanngam Arthur.
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Dr. Lucy Shaiza called for empowering Hunphun Shanao through this celebration. She stated, “it is very important to preserve and promote our culture and tradition. Our culture is our identity. May this celebration also be a time to empower women of Hunphun so that they can participate equally in society. As we showcase our rich and vibrant culture, let us continue to foster harmony and peace among all the brethren. We should be very careful in imparting other cultures and ways of life. The drug menace has enveloped our society. Let us learn the good from others and discard what is not beneficial to our society.”
Headman, Hunphun Village Authority, H.A. Khayaiwo, stated that “Luira̱ Phanit is one of the longest and most important agricultural festivals of Hunphun. I wish every participant would perform their best and make this celebration a meaningful one. I wish everyone a bountiful harvest.”
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The opening ceremony of Hunphun Luira̱ Phanit was also attended by AS. Nathan, Chairman, Tangkhul Naga Zingsho Longphang, Shomi Angkang, Chairman, Tangkhul Naga Aze Longphang, Wungpam L Shimray, Chairman, Tangkhul Naga Ato Longphang, and Epchan Pharung, Chairman of Tangkhul Naga Zingtun Longphang.
The villagers displayed cultural competition items like Khamahon, Thingreira Khangakhun (tug of war), Khangatuk (wrestling), Rai Khangathat, and Indigenous Seed. The Hunphun Luira̱ Phanit will wind up on 19 February 2024.
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