SENAPATI: Mount Everest College (Autonomous) organised its annual Cultural Day on Wednesday, showcasing a vibrant display of cultural dances, music and fashion representing different communities. The event, held at the college auditorium, was organised by the Cultural Committee in collaboration with the IQAC under the theme “Unity through Cultural Heritage.”
Delivering the keynote address, Vice Principal Gonmei Meithuanlungpou said that culture has the power to unite different ethnic groups, but in the absence of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity, it can also lead to division and conflict in a heterogeneous society.
He remarked that just as culture unites villages within a tribe, humanity should unite different tribes within a global community. Emphasizing that culture consists of both material and non-material aspects, he noted that culture forms a people’s identity and stressed the need to preserve, promote and practice one’s cultural heritage.
Highlighting the diversity of the country, he stated that India is home to around 705 cultures, with Manipur itself home to 33 tribes, each with its own distinct culture. To live peacefully in such diversity, he urged people to respect, tolerate and appreciate one another while upholding justice, equality, liberty and fraternity.
While speaking on the occasion, the Vice Principal also reflected on the recent achievement of the college receiving autonomous status on February 24, 2026. He expressed gratitude to the Director of University and Higher Education, Manipur University, the University Grants Commission, and other authorities for granting the status. He said autonomy brings not only recognition but also greater responsibility and an opportunity to contribute more meaningfully to society.
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Various competition events were organised featuring students from different tribal communities studying in the college, including the Zeliangrong, Poumai, Tangkhul, Mao, Nepali, Maram and Kuki communities. Performances were judged based on authenticity and heritage, uniformity and rhythm, and traditional costumes.
In the traditional dance competition, the Poumai cultural dance troupe secured the first position, followed by the Mao cultural dance troupe in second place and the Nepali cultural dance troupe in third.
The programme featured several attractions including traditional dance competitions, an extravaganza show, war cry performances, cultural shows and a traditional cuisine display. Students participated in large numbers wearing traditional attire representing their respective communities.
The event was attended by VS Vaison, Adviser of the Poumai Cultural Committee, Ngaopunii Rao, Poumai Cultural Secretary, village authorities from Taphou Phyamai village, along with faculty members, assistant professors, staff and students of the college.