Delhi: A harmonious collaboration between Rongmei Phwam Delhi (RPD) and Rongmei Chamnac Phwam Delhi (RCPD) unfolded in the grand celebration of Gaan-Ngai 2024 Delhi NCR, a post-harvest festival. The event took place at the Community Multipurpose Centre, Kaushik Enclave, Burari, Delhi on January 27, 2024, from 03:00 pm to 10:00 pm (IST). Under the theme “Our Culture Our Identity,” the celebration witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Rongmei community and well-wishers.
The celebration’s success hinged on the generous support of co-sponsors, including Faitheal Biotech, Remmei Hair & Beauty, Malangmei Brothers, United Builders India, Mahesh Sharma (Greenland Associates), Dr. Jailoungam Gonmei, and numerous well-wishers, uniting in the cause of preserving and celebrating Rongmei culture.
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Luh G. Jesia Gangmei and Pouh Gaisuamrei Panmei led the event as charismatic comperes, guiding the audience through a series of vibrant events showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Rongmei community.
The event commences with the rhythmic beats of traditional drums (Meic-kabaimei khuanghlwan) performed by Pouh Pouning Panmei, Pouh Jeff Rongmei and Pouh Ngankulung Kamei. The festivities kick off with the Huaygamhmei procession, a spectacle where males of all ages – elders, married individuals, youths, and even children – adorned in their finest Rongmei attires and wielding spears, enthusiastically participate. The procession makes its way from the Celebration Hall to the main road and back, resonating with spirited chants of ‘Ho, Ho’ (Ho-Hoing). Following this vibrant display, the atmosphere heightens with thrilling competitions, including the Long Jump (Danhchammei) and Shot Put (Taupwang phaihmei). The inauguration of the Long Jump (Danhchammei) and Shot Put (Taupwang phaihmei) was carried out by the esteemed elder, Pouh Rev. Dr. Kamthui Panmei.
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The triumphant winners of the Long Jump and Shot Put competitions were announced in a traditional manner known as ‘Swan Kauhmei.’ Pouh Dimkulung Pamei, the festival’s Convener and the Sports & Cultural Secretary of RPD, officiated the declaration. Pouh Mordicai Dangmei claimed victory in the Long Jump category, showcasing remarkable athleticism, while Pouh Karimpou Kamei emerged as the champion in the Shot Put event.
Adding a touch of cultural significance to the festivities, the traditional ‘New Fire Making’, known as ‘Mailapmei,’ was gracefully performed by Pouh Pouning Panmei and Pouh Jagoulung Panmei, enriching the event with a deeper cultural resonance.
Pouh Dimkulung Pamei, the festival’s convener, set the tone for the event by extending warm Gaan-Ngai greetings, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.
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During the first session, a poignant moment unfolded as everyone stood in unison, singing the Rongmei Anthem ‘He Ruangmei Zaat.’ The collective voices resonated, symbolizing unity and a shared celebration of Rongmei culture. Following this, the stage came alive with a captivating Rongmei Cultural Dance performed by the talented children of NE Place Rongmei Society, Burari, Delhi. The energy in the room soared with the dynamic and vibrant ‘Khuaiguna Laam’ dance, skillfully presented by the Rongmei Women’s Cultural Dance Troupe (RWCDT).
Lucas L. Kamsuan, CSS Joint Secretary (Admin. Estt: Parliament & General Mgt. CPSEs), Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India, delivered a thoughtful speech on the theme ‘Our Culture Our Identity,’ underscoring the importance of culture and emphasizing the significance of preserving our cultural heritage.
The first session concluded with the joyous Pazeihmei, where everyone enthusiastically participated in singing and dancing, expressing the joy of unity. Adding to the excitement, the official drummers Pouh Jeff Rongmei, Pouh Khangamlung Kamei, Pouh Boni Dangmei and Pouh Pouning Panmei brought an extra layer of energy to the festivities. Following the session, all attendees delighted in the Gaan Ngai Feast, providing a wonderful opportunity for sharing a meal and celebrating the rich culture of the Rongmei community.
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The second session unfolded with a special performance, featuring soulful song by Luh Gaithailiu Gonmei, Pouh Namdisin Kamei, and Gugu Ruangmei. Luh Cicilia Kamei & Luh Chungbamliu Longmei then graced the stage with a mesmerizing Cultural Duet Dance, followed by a captivating cultural show presented by Gaipuangliu Gonmei and Team. The energy soared as the Rongmei Women’s Cultural Dance Troupe (RWCDTD) took center stage, delivering a spirited performance of the ‘Siandaih Laam’ dance. The second session concluded on a vibrant note with the Pazeihmei, where everyone enthusiastically joined in singing and dancing, further expressing the joy of unity.
The event reached its conclusion with a gracious vote of thanks delivered by Pouh Huaineiguang Rwangmei, the Function Secretary of Gaan-Ngai 2024 Delhi NCR, and also the General Secretary of RPD. And on behalf of the organizing committee, Pouh Huaineiguang extended heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, participants and attendees, those in charge of various responsibilities, donors, and well-wishers, acknowledging their pivotal role in making the event a resounding success.
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