Newmai News Network
IMPHAL, Oct 31: The Liangmai community residing in Maharashtra came together to celebrate the Chaga Ngee festival with the theme “Celebrating Liangmai Culture” at the Papal Seminary Wadgaon Sheri in Pune on yesterday.
The event was attended by Liangmai people living in Maharashtra, a statement from the organizing committee said.
The Chaga Ngee festival, a significant cultural and blessings festival, was graced by the esteemed presence of Aaron Pamei as chief guest, who is currently holding the position of Director (Personnel) at the Naval HQ, Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
The event was also graced by the presence of the president and executives of the Naga Student Union, Pune; Zeliangrong kalyan Organisation Pune; Pastors of Naga Christian Fellowship Pune; Atul Kulkarni who is chairman of Amazing Namaste Foundation, member of the Board of Governors, IIM Shillong, and representative from My Home India, added the statement.
During this festival, the participants greeted one another with the phrase ‘Naphou Chagabo thiulo,’ which means “I wish you luck or fortune.”
Speaking on the occasion, Dr M Maisuangdibou, assistant professor at UBS, Pune, and the author of two books, “Liangmai Narratives” and “Biblical Hermeneutics,” highlighted insight on the significance of Chaga Ngee and its historical celebrations.
He further stated, “Chaga Ngee, often referred to as the October Festival, represents the most significant and grandest event within the Liangmai community. It is celebrated during the month of Chaga Hiu, which corresponds to October, marking the festivities following the harvest season with various customs and rituals that serve as sanctification, purification of community, stressing on the warriors, thanksgiving, bestowing blessings for individual fortune and success”.
During Chaga Ngee, community members seek blessings from Tingwang, the supreme God, he added.
He also highlighted that in the past, the community used to celebrate various festivals every month. However, Chaga Ngee is the only festival that continues to be celebrated till this day.
Speaking on the occasion, Aaron Pamai encouraged all the youths to continue living as an ambassador for everyone back home. He also expressed that everyone should respect one’s cultural and traditional legacies giving regards to its roots for a better society.
The event highlighted cultural importance of Chaga Ngee, emphasizing communal sanctification and gratitude, and showcased the resilience of tradition, reinforcing the strong bond within the Liangmai community.
“This festival not only celebrated the community’s rich heritage but also emphasized the importance of cultural preservation, making it a memorable and meaningful occasion for all,” it added.
About Post Author
