Ukhrul, November 1: The Kut festival also known as the Chavang Kut, is an autumn harvest festival embodying the spirit of unity, gratitude and abundance celebrated every year by the Kuki-Chin-Mizo Communities in Manipur on November 1st marking the culmination of harvest season.
The history of Kut Festival is deeply rooted in the traditions of Manipur tracing back to a time when people revered nature for sustaining life. The auspicious festival however came to a halt this year due to the ongoing Ethnic Tensions in the state.
The Kuki Zo Council expressed disappointment that the festival could not be celebrated today as a large number of families are still trying to cope with the loss, damage and continued hardships faced by those in relief camps.
Despite November 1st being declared a state holiday the community stayed away from any celebration or festivities in solidarity with those affected by the violence.
“The Kut festival has been celebrated for many decades and is also recognised as a state holiday. However, with the outbreak of the ethnic conflict in 2023, the community has decided to skip its largest festival,” said Ginza Vualzong, spokesperson, Kuki-Zo Council (KZC).
He also added, “Until the community gets some kind of solution from the government, I don’t think we will be celebrating the festival.”
Reaffirming its demand for a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory with legislature, the Kuki Zo Council called upon the Government of India to expedite the political dialogue with SoO leaders.
Extending greetings to the festival, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla urged to “strengthen bonds of brotherhood among all communities” and to usher “peace, prosperity, and happiness in every household of Manipur.”
Former Chief Minster Biren Singh also extended his greetings on X saying “The festival embodies the spirit of unity, peace and brotherhood among all communities of the state.” The Indian National Congress conveyed similar messages of unity and hope.
In a joint press statement, the Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM), Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), and Thadou Academic Society (TAS) expressed appreciation for the Governor’s decision to restore the full and original name of the festival, Chavang Kut.
The associations described the move as a positive step toward greater cultural recognition and inclusivity for the Thadou community.
