CHURACHANDPUR: The second Paite Cultural Festival-cum-Mithun Festival was held today at the Auditorium of Rayburn College, Gangpimual, Churachandpur. The event was organised by the Paite Cultural Society (PCS), Headquarters, Lamka.
The festival, first organised in 2014, resumed this year after a 12-year gap. It was organised with the objective of promoting, protecting and sustaining the cultural heritage, traditions and practices of the Paite community, bringing together various aspects of Paite cultural life.
The programme featured speeches by leaders of different denominational churches among the Paite community, special performances by selected cultural troupes, and addresses by leaders of major Paite organisations. Mr L. Nengkhopau Ngaihte, former executive director of PCS, graced the occasion as the Festival Pa, or father of the ceremony.
A key highlight of the Paite Cultural Festival-cum-Mithun Festival 2026 was the recognition of individuals who have contributed to the promotion and preservation of Paite culture. The event also featured a cultural troupe competition involving eight troupes, which showcased various traditional practices, customs and cultural expressions of the Paite community.
Speaking on the occasion, PCS executive director Mr Langkhanpau Guite said the festival was organised to promote and preserve the culture and traditions of the Paite community. He said the programme also recognised people for achievements connected with traditional community life, including those who harvested the most paddy in the hills, had the most children and possessed the highest number of Mithun.
ALSO READ: 133 Bn CRPF Organises 10-KM Marathon at Saikul
Guite highlighted the close cultural significance of the Mithun in Paite and Zomi society, stating that the animal has traditionally been associated with social status and important customary practices. Mithun has also played a significant role in determining bride price in marriages and in compensation for collateral damage, serving as an important form of social welfare and customary settlement.
The festival, therefore, sought not only to celebrate Paite cultural traditions but also to recognise and preserve the customary practices and values associated with the community’s heritage.
