Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 11:
Colorful cultural programmes, distribution of fruits and vegetables and crowning of Mister and Miss 2003 titles marked the Chagan Phungjanbo celebration of the Liangmei tribe held today at Makhan village under Saitu Assembly constituency.
The celebration to welcome the New Year and wish for well-being of the villagers is held every three year at Makhan located 2 kms West of the NH 39 on the Koubru hill range.
Fruits and vegetable distribution to every household of the village accompanied with cultural dances by the village youths and prayers for peace and prosperity is the main objective of the celebration.
The village has 127 clans with over 800 inhabitants.
In his inaugural address MoS (Fisheries) Wungnaoshang Keishing wished that the celebration make village prosperous and strengthen age-old brotherly bond amongst various communities.
Highlighting the unique and rich cultural heritage of the Liangmei people, the Minister exhorted the youths to uphold and preserve the rich customs and traditions of the forefathers.
Speaking as the president of the function MoS (Power) Md Allaudin Khan urged upon the people to foster the age-old relation amongst various community and to pursue development of the State unitedly.
Remarking that the power transformer installed at the village is inadequate to cater to the villagers' requirements, he promised replacement with a new one and provision of all materials for the purpose.
MoS (Labour) Z Mangaibou and MoS (PHE) Thangso Baite also graced the occasion as guests of honour.
M Namphenlungbou (17) and TH Shiliniu (17) were adjusted Mister and Miss Title winners of Chagan Phungjanbo 2003 respectively while the runners up title in the both categories went to M Panamdibou and TH Kawileniu.
The winners were randomly selected by the Ministers from amongst the cultural programmes participants.