Imphal, January 08: A curtain raiser programme to the Gaan-Ngai celebration, the biggest festival of the Zeliangrong people, was held at Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre (BOAT) here today.

The function organised by Miss Gaan-Ngai Committee, Manipur under the aegis of Zeliangrong Indigenous Festival Committee was attended by Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, MPCC (I) president and Power Minister G Gaikhangam and Miss Gaan-Ngai Committee president S Puni Kamei as chief guest, guest of honour and president respectively.

Speaking at the occasion, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said Manipur occupies a place of pride in the world in the field of art and culture, and Zeliangrong community also plays an important role in enriching the culture of the State.

The Chief minister further appealed to all distinct ethnic groups of people settling in Manipur to contribute their mite keeping alive the tradition of peaceful co-existence in the State.

Gaikhangam while conveying his greetings for Gaan-Ngai to the people hoped that celebration of the festival would in its true spirit would usher in peace and bring the people closer together.

In his presidential address, S Puni Kamei appealed to the people for co-operation and support in making the Gaan-Ngai celebration grand success.

He also informed that Miss Gaan-Ngai contest would be included from this year onward in the celebration.

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