Result for the first edition of AWO-AYI HAOLAA PHAKHARI KHANGAHAN 2021 for 15 enthusiastic groups from different Tangkhul region was declared on Monday. Judges for this competition were Guru Rawung and TS Shimreingam Angelus (Rtd MCS).
WINNER:
IHAO NGASHAN from Zingsui Sambu Village
SECOND:
Mervini Yarthot, Chingjaroi Ngachaphung
MOST PROMISING KHANUITHOT:
Horchamri, Chahong Khullen
Apart from the three major winners, the judges also selected top five (including the top three) from the 15 groups participants. The selected top five will get the opportunity to perform at All India Radio as Certified Folk Artists. They will receive remuneration as per their standard. This opportunity is not just for once but as long they can perform, Ekhon said.
The top five are: 1. Ihao Ngashan, Zingsui Sambu Village 2. Marvini Yarthot, Chingjaroi Village 3. Ngashan Mathuk Khon, Mapum Village 4. Horchamri, Chahong Khullen 5. Sariyo Group, Zingsui Sambu Village
Organizer Ekhon said that “AWO-AYI HAOLAA PHAKHARI KHANGAHAN” is part of documentation campaign organized by Ekhon to preserve indigenous Folk Culture. The initiative is a call for public participation in safeguarding our culture that are almost lost in the wake of modernization. Contrary to modern culture, indigenous people are fortunate in that we have set values, principles and wisdom that are directly linked to nature and mother earth. We should retain this values that sets us apart.
Ekhon also noted a problem area – Owing to lack of written system, we practice oral tradition and we have no written records of our culture which at this very moment is losing its authenticity. Each year our Elders, bearers of our folk culture are dying due to old age and along with them, we are losing our cultural history altogether. We are in the juncture where we may lose our cultural and traditional knowledge if we don’t safeguard them. There is an urgency to research and preserve them for future generation.
Ekhon is a non-profit media organization by indigenous peoples for indigenous issues, concerns, rights and aspirations.