INTRODUCTION
 |
| Image: A-pao |
Gaan Ngai Festival: Nurturing the Heart of Zeliangrong Culture
Culture, tradition, and religious practices are threads that intricately weave the identity of a community. For the Zeliangrong people, the Gaan Ngai Festival stands as a pinnacle, embodying their cultural and religious essence. This festival, also known as Chaakan Gaan-Ngai, serves as a vibrant tapestry that not only unites the Zeliangrong community but also reflects their historical journey and spiritual connection. From its origin to its modern-day celebration, Gaan Ngai Festival holds a special place in the hearts and lives of the Zeliangrong people, residing in the states of Manipur, Nagaland, and Assam.
A Triad of Names and Uniting Essence
The Zeliangrong community, a collective term for Zemei, Liangmai, and Rongmei (Kabui) tribes, along with Puimei, came into being on February 15, 1947, at Keishamthong Kabui Village. Gaan Ngai Festival, also known as Gin-Ngi among the Liangmai, Hega-Ngi among the Zeme, and Chaakan Gaan-Ngai or Chaakak Ngai among the Rongmei (Kabui) and Puimei, serves as a bridge that connects these various tribal identities into a harmonious celebration of their shared heritage.
The Journey of Recognition and Celebration
The history of Gaan Ngai Festival, much like the tale of the Zeliangrong people, is a narrative of perseverance and recognition. In 1976, during the R.K. Dorendra Ministry, Gaan Ngai Festival was granted restricted holiday status in Manipur, a testament to the efforts of various Zeliangrong organizations. This recognition marked a significant step toward acknowledging the festival's cultural and religious significance.
The festival's journey toward recognition, however, wasn't without its challenges. The Ibobi Singh-led government removed Gaan Ngai Festival from the holiday list in 2003. However, public outcry and media pressure compelled the government to restore its rightful place. This episode underscores the festival's deep-rooted importance to the Zeliangrong community and their unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
Gaan Ngai: A Celebration of Abundance and Spirituality
Gaan Ngai Festival, a post-harvest celebration, paints a vivid picture of Zeliangrong culture and spirituality. Falling in the winter season, the festival's name itself reveals its essence: "Gaan" translates to winter or dry season, and "Ngai" signifies a joyful festival. The festival's roots trace back to the time when the Supreme God, Ragwang, created the universe and all that resides within it.
The Zeliangrong people, once living in harmony with gods, experienced turmoil due to the gods' dominance. Legends recount the transformation of men into khoidai (bees), signifying a rebellion that led to the expulsion of gods from the communal dormitory known as Khangchu. This act of defiance brought peace to the Zeliangrong people, a pivotal event commemorated through Gaan Ngai.
Rituals and Customs: Nurturing Tradition
Gaan Ngai Festival carries a rich tapestry of rituals and customs, each contributing to its holistic celebration. The preparation for the festival begins months in advance. The collection of plant trunks, known as Taa bang or Tamu bang, symbolizes the festival's fire-making ritual. This fire, believed to be sacred and auspicious, is produced through the art of rubbing and pressing these trunks.
The festival's schedule is meticulously planned by village elders, and designated members of Khangchu (male dormitory) and Luchu (female dormitory) play pivotal roles in executing its events. From offering ritual prayers to the gate-protecting deities to distributing the sacred fire, every aspect of Gaan Ngai holds spiritual significance.
Embracing Change while Honoring Tradition
As Gaan Ngai Festival evolved through time, certain changes have occurred, while the core essence remains intact. Modern conveniences have replaced certain traditional practices, and the vibrancy of folk stories and songs has endured the test of time. Despite these changes, the festival's soul remains rooted in its spiritual connection, fostering unity and gratitude among the Zeliangrong community.
Gaan Ngai Festival is a living testament to the Zeliangrong people's resilience, cultural pride, and deep-rooted spirituality. From its humble origins to its recognition as a significant holiday, this festival serves as a bridge between generations, reminding them of their ancestral heritage and the importance of cherishing their roots.
As the Zeliangrong community gathers to celebrate Gaan Ngai Festival, they partake in a shared legacy, nourishing their cultural identity while embracing the winds of change. In their celebrations, rituals, and camaraderie, they continue to preserve the heart of their culture, ensuring that the flame of Gaan Ngai burns brightly for generations to come.
A Day in the Life of Gaan Ngai Festival: A Symphony of Tradition and Celebration
As the first rays of dawn pierce the horizon, the air reverberates with the rhythmic beats of a drum, a melodious call that awakens the Supreme God, Haipou Ragwang. This symphony of sound marks the beginning of the sacred Gaan Ngai Festival, a celebration deeply intertwined with the heart of the Zeliangrong community. In an era before timepieces became commonplace, the crow of the first cock or the crack of dawn signaled the start of this auspicious day.
A Melodic Wake-Up Call to the Divine
The young boys, residing in Khangchu (the male dormitory), take up the task of awakening the divine presence with their drumming. This initial beating of the drum, performed in a rhythmic and pleasant manner, is a symbolic call to Haipou Ragwang, beseeching Him to open His golden gate and embrace the arrival of Chakan Gaan-Ngai. Much like the bell that rings before entering a temple or the knocking on a door, this drumming serves as a respectful announcement of presence and intent.
Rite of Bambujang Lamei: Invoking Divine Protection
The awakening drumming heralds the next stage of the day's rituals. A member of Pei, the elder group of the village, undertakes the traditional rite of 'Bambujang Lamei' or 'Guu lim dhan jaomei.' With offerings of ginger and an egg, this ritual is performed first to Keipi Bambu (Kaipi Shongpu), the deity guarding the northern gate of the village. The same process is repeated for Kaiba Bambu (Kaiba Shongpui), the guardian of the southern gate. This ritual serves as an invocation for the protection of the village and its inhabitants from accidents and unforeseen events during the festival.
Offerings and Unity
Following the Bambujang Lamei ritual, the elder Pei member offers oblations of home-brewed wine to Haipou Ragwang, seeking His blessings for prosperity. The young boys, enveloped in the spirit of the festival, beat the drum around the village, proclaiming the commencement of Chakan Gaan-Ngai. As part of the festival's fire-making ritual, boys from Khangchu, aided by Mhai-gang, extract fire at the Long jump plot of the village. This fire, believed to be holy and sacred, signifies purity and auspiciousness.
A Reverence for Nature's Signs
A special moment during this day involves the catching of a boar by a young boy of Khangchu. This act is celebrated as a sign of strength and accomplishment. The boar's spleen, examined by village elders, holds significance in determining signs of good and evil that the upcoming year may bring. The boar meat, cooked with its blood, is consumed by all members of Khangchu, fostering a vow of unity among the village people.
Cultural Games and Festive Spirit
As the sun declines westward, the village gathers for the spirited events of short put and long jump competitions. These athletic feats are adorned with colorful shawls and headgear made from Guu, symbolizing both celebration and traditional heritage. The winners of the competitions are announced with traditional cries, reflecting the joyful competitive spirit of the festival.
A Night of Camaraderie and Remembrance
As the sun sets, the evening brings about a sense of camaraderie and remembrance. Boys and girls dine together in groups, visiting the houses of participants, singing traditional carol songs, and spreading the joy of Chakan Gaan-Ngai. Amid this festivity, a group of Pei elders, known as Gaanchang, traverse the village, knocking on doors with a symbolic stick. This gesture serves as a reminder to avoid quarrels and ill words during the festival, fostering an environment of unity and respect.
Honoring Departed Souls and Shared Memories
The day concludes with a poignant tribute to departed souls. Families remember and honor their deceased members by offering rice, curry, and wine at the gravesites. This observance, known as 'Thei meitei Ngai dongmei,' signifies the continuity of family bonds and the importance of preserving the memories of loved ones.
The symphony of Gaan Ngai Festival weaves together traditions, rituals, camaraderie, and reflection, forming a rich tapestry that binds the Zeliangrong community. From dawn till dusk, this day epitomizes the essence of their culture, spirituality, and shared identity, ensuring that the flame of tradition burns brightly in the hearts of generations to come.
2. Ngai-Dai (Great Festival - The Second Day of Festival)
The Grand Celebration of Ngai-Dai: Unity, Gratitude, and Vigilance
As the sun paints the sky with shades of morning, the second day of the Gaan Ngai Festival arrives, known as Ngai-Dai or the Great Festival. This day, also referred to as Tamchan-Ngai, embodies a rich tapestry of unity, gratitude, and vigilance within the Zeliangrong community.
A Generous Offering of Unity
In the early hours of the morning, Gaanpi Gandai, the senior male of Khangchu, and Tunapi Gandai, the senior female of Luchu, bear forth their most prized offerings. These offerings consist of delectable food and home-brewed rice beers (zou-ngao/zou dui), representing a generous and collective contribution to the festival. This tradition, known as Tamcha, is a manifestation of unity, as each member of the community shares in the festival's spirit through their offerings.
Remembering the Departed Souls
The day carries a solemn undertone as well. Parents or family members of those who passed away in the previous year present the Last Tamcha, a gesture of remembrance and honor. This presentation is an act of reverence to the departed souls and is called Thei Tamcha. A Banja member from Pei, the elder group of the village, voices blessings for prosperity and health upon those who presented Tamcha, invoking the grace of Almighty God, Haipou Ragwang. This proclamation of goodwill is known as Tamshuan.
Sharing and Celebration
The contributions of vegetables and comestibles are shared among Khangchu, Luchu, and the Dormitory Owners (Khangchupei and Luchu Pei), further emphasizing the communal nature of the festival. As the afternoon sun casts its warmth, elder members of Khangchu, accompanied by young boys, visit each home of the boys and girls who offered Tamcha. Their purpose is to express gratitude and appreciation on behalf of Khangchu, offering blessings and goodwill to these generous contributors.
The Dance of Tamchan Laam
As the day deepens into evening, the festival takes on a lively and celebratory spirit. Laamreng, a traditional dance program, is organized and presented by the girls. This dance, known as Tamchan Laam, is a token of appreciation for the families who presented Tamcha to Khangchu. Through graceful movements and rhythmic beats, the dance becomes an artistic expression of gratitude and festivity.
A Night of Vigilance and Song
Nightfall brings forth an aspect of vigilance and community protection. Kairong Lonmei, a practice that can occur on any night during Chakaan Gaan-Ngai, Rih-Ngai, Tun-Ngai, etc., involves the male members of the community. In times past, they would guard the village dressed in traditional war attire, known as Rih-pheikao, armed with spears. This act symbolized their readiness to protect the village from potential threats.
In contemporary times, this tradition has evolved. While the war dresses and spears have given way to modern clothing and the iconic Phei-ngao, the spirit remains the same. The men gather to sing songs that honor the valor and courage of their people. These songs resonate with meaning and emotion, capturing the essence of their history and strength. Throughout the night, they keep a watchful eye, singing songs that not only protect but also uplift the community.
A Continuing Symphony of Tradition
As the second day of Gaan Ngai Festival draws to a close, it leaves behind a trail of unity, appreciation, and a shared sense of protection. Each aspect of this day, from the generous offerings to the traditional dances and vigilance, contributes to the symphony of tradition that has been passed down through generations. The Ngai-Dai celebration reflects the Zeliangrong community's unwavering bond with its heritage and the dedication to keeping its vibrant culture alive.
3. Tuna Gaan-Ngai (The Third Day of Festival)
Tuna Gaan Ngai: The Culmination of Celebration and Reverence
On the third day of Chakan Gaan-Ngai, Tuna Gaan Ngai, a special festival dedicated to both girls and boys of Khangchu and Luchu, unfolds. This day is characterized by traditional dances, offerings, and an intertwining of celebration and reverence.
Laam-Leng: Dance for Fundraising and Tradition
Laam-Leng, a traditional dance program, takes center stage on Tuna Gaan Ngai. Organized by both male and female members of Khangchu and Luchu, the dance visits specific families as per the schedule set by Khangchu based on age seniority. A certain number of boys and girls are chosen for Laam-Leng by Khangbon and Gaanpi Gandai, ensuring an even number to avoid any imbalance.
The first dance, known as Khangchu Kadimei, commences at Khangchu itself before moving to the selected families for the performance. Following the completion of Laam-Leng at each household, a ceremonial Hoi is heralded, and a traditional ritual is performed to offer wine to Haipou Ragwang, the Supreme God. Families provide donations known as Lam Shuan and offer various comestibles. The final dance, Luchu Kadimei, concludes the Laam-Leng journey at Luchu.
Honoring Departed Souls and Prominent Figures
However, if there are Honorary Dances scheduled for Departed Souls (Thei Kadimei) or for the Senior Male of Khangchu (Khangbon Kadimei) on Tuna Gaan Ngai, Laam-Leng is not organized. In case of a convergence of Khangbon Kadimei and Thei Kadimei on the same day, Khangbon Kadimei takes precedence and is followed by Thei Kadimei.
The rituals surrounding Honorary Dances are meticulously observed, with the seniority of age dictating the sequence of events. These dances are a way to honor and celebrate significant individuals, whether living or departed, within the community.
Thei Kadimei: Communion of Living and Death
Thei Kadimei holds profound significance as it symbolizes the last communion between the living and the departed. In the Zeliangrong belief, the departed soul remains with the family until the next Gaan-Ngai arrives. On this day, the grave is adorned with care, and a variety of dishes, drinks, fruits, and sweets are offered to the departed soul. Incense sticks and candles illuminate the surroundings as homage is paid to the departed.
In the afternoon, all members of Khangchu and Luchu come together to perform dances and sing customary farewell songs to honor the departed soul. This poignant event marks the final celebration shared by the living and the departed.
Cultural Attire and Tradition
Throughout the festival, the participants wear their distinctive traditional attires or costumes, adding a touch of magnificence to the celebrations. The conclusion of the dances is marked by the heralding of a traditional Hoi. Various comestibles, including boiled vegetables, chutney, rice beer, and wine, are offered to Haipou Ragwang with traditional rituals.
Keku: A Playful Farewell Ritual
Among the activities of the day is Keku, a playful and symbolic performance. One person pretends to be deceased, while others enact funeral rituals. The "dead" person suddenly rises and proclaims that they were not deceased but rather visited the House of Haipou Ragwang for blessings upon the village. This lighthearted yet significant ritual is followed by a feast where meats and vegetables are collected from Khangchu, Luchu, and Peikai.
A Multifaceted Tapestry of Tradition
Tuna Gaan Ngai weaves together a multifaceted tapestry of tradition, encompassing dances, reverence for the departed, honor for significant individuals, and even lighthearted rituals. This day, filled with dances, rituals, and offerings, marks the culmination of the Gaan Ngai Festival, embodying the spirit of unity, celebration, and deep cultural connections within the Zeliangrong community.
4. Longruimei or Ngaiba (The Fourth Day of Gaan-Ngai)
Longkumei: Hill Trekking and Festive Celebration
The fourth day of Chakaan Gaan-Ngai is known as Longkumei or Longruimei, which translates to "Hill Trekking" or "Hilltop Gathering." This day holds a special significance as a moment to appreciate nature's beauty, celebrate youth, and engage in cultural activities.
Hill Trekking and Nature's Beauty
Longkumei is marked by a trek to a nearby hill or mountain by the boys, girls, and senior members of Khangchu and Luchu. From the hilltop, they can gaze down upon their village and immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of nature. This experience fosters a deep connection to their surroundings and an appreciation for the land they call home.
Selecting Kings and Queens
During the Hill Trekking festivities, participants select "Phaakgwang" or "Kings" from the boys and "Queens" from the girls for that year's celebration. These selections are symbolic, representing the idea of marriage. The chosen Kings and Queens are adorned with headgear made from a specific type of grass called Paknui. Other participants also wear headgear, creating a unified and festive appearance.
Showcasing Talents and Cultural Expressions
Longkumei is not only about enjoying nature but also about celebrating talents and cultural expressions. Participants display various talents such as drum beating, singing folk songs, and performing traditional dances. Those who have displayed valor in conflicts showcase their war dances, and individuals representing animals like tigers, bears, pythons, and wild boars present dances that mimic the might and movements of these creatures. These performances are collectively known as "Kabaomei."
Phagwang Laam: The Dance of Maturity
After engaging in carefree and joyful activities on the hilltop, participants share traditional foods like Gakting Tam (a chutney made of boiled pork, ginger, onion, chili, garlic, salt, and dried and fermented fish) and wine. Before departing from the hill, a traditional Hoitan is heralded, signaling the return to the village.
In the evening, both Khangchu and Luchu members come together to honor the selected Kings and Queens with a special dance known as "Phagwang Laam." This dance carries a significant cultural implication, as it was believed in ancient times that those who were graced with the Phagwang Laam were considered mature enough to enter into relationships.
Longkumei: A Fusion of Nature and Tradition
Longkumei beautifully blends the appreciation of nature's beauty with the celebration of youth, cultural talents, and the symbolic selection of Kings and Queens. This day offers a holistic experience that strengthens the sense of community and cultural identity among the Zeliangrong people, reflecting the harmonious relationship between people and their environment.
5. Nap Chamei (Fifth and Last day of the Festival)
Nap Chanmei: The Concluding Day and Festive Rituals
The fifth and final day of the Gan-Ngai Festival is known as Nap Chanmei. This day marks the conclusion of the festival and is dedicated to ancestral religious practices, prayers, and feasting.
Ancestral Religious Prayer and Offerings
During Nap Chanmei, the community engages in ancestral religious practices. Prayers are offered to deities such as Kambuipui, the goddess of wealth, Charaipui, and Ganglaongampui. Offerings of pig or fowl liver are made to these deities. The purpose of this prayer is to seek blessings for wealth and prosperity in the coming year, as well as to call back any wealth that might have been spent during the festival.
Khupot Ritual
In the morning of Nap Chanmei, a ritual involving a bamboo with an internode takes place. This bamboo piece, known as Khupot, is distributed to every family in the village. It is hung at the threshold of each household after filling it with cotton and pouring wine inside. This ritual is believed to have protective qualities against epidemic diseases. The bamboo nodes, which are believed to collect any potential diseases, are thrown outside the village gate on the following day by a Pei member.
Feasting and Celebration
As evening approaches, delicious food, including meat curry and other dishes, are prepared in both the male and female dormitories (Khangchu and Luchu). The feast is a collective effort, and the freshly cooked food is offered to the gods by a Pei member before being delivered to every household in the village. Special invitations are extended to all Pei members, Khangchu Pou-Pei, Luchu Pou-Pie, and senior members of Khangchu for the feast. Male and female dormitories each have their own celebration.
Napshin Ganshin Laomei: Mockery and Praise
After the feast, male youths gather, led by a senior member, to engage in a playful yet meaningful activity. Mockery and praising songs are sung for the individual in charge of preparing the food, curry, and wine during the festival. This activity holds significance in forgiving and forgetting any mistakes that might have occurred during the festivity. Praise songs for Khangchupuo-Pei are also sung, wishing for greater prosperity in the coming years.
Folk Songs and Celebratory Dance
Mockery songs are sung in praise of Khangchupuo-Pei as the group proceeds to the Female Dormitory (Luchu). Here, boys and girls engage in a folk song competition called Luchu Kailong Lonluh. The day provides an opportunity for boys and girls to learn traditional folk songs such as Lamlonluh and Mazaluh.
Pajeimei and Kailong Ronmei
After the folk song competition, boys return to Khangchu, heralding a Rihlai Hoi procession. During the night, two celebratory dances can take place. Pajeimei involves a sequence of boys and girls sitting alternately in line, swinging their clothes to the rhythm of songs and drum beats. Kailong Ronmei, or "Guarding the Village," can also be performed, showcasing the community's unity and strength.
Nap Chanmei represents a blend of religious devotion, communal unity, and joyful celebration, culminating the Gan-Ngai Festival with a sense of renewal and anticipation for the year ahead.
6. Raang PatmeiRaang Patmei and Raren Roumei: Rituals, Offerings, and Traditions
Raang Patmei, also known as Keirong Raren Roumei, holds significant traditional rituals and practices within the Gan-Ngai Festival. This day involves offerings, prayers, and customs performed to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the village.
Meaning and Significance of Raang Patmei
Raang Patmei translates to "coming out at the northern gate of the village." This day involves rituals performed at the village gate and is considered part of the festival. It is essential in ensuring protection against harm from gods and spirits. The village priest conducts the rituals, aiming to safeguard the community.
Offerings and Prayers
Each household member contributes a cock, fine ginger, and banana leaves for offerings to the pantheon of gods during the Raren Roumei prayer ceremony. These offerings are made to multiple gods in a specific order, including Ragwang, Buichanu (Bisnu), Kara-Ngong, Napshinmei, Chon-chai, Charakilongmei, and more. The offerings often involve cocks and wine, symbolizing reverence and devotion to these deities.
Distribution of Cock Meat
The cock meat offered during the ceremony is distributed among specific members of the community. It is not consumed by members of Khangchu, Luchu, Mathenmei, Gaanchang, and Chaangroi. Instead, it can be eaten by Pei members such as Banjas, aged women, and young children who are not yet part of Khangchu or Luchu.
Genna and Protection from Spirits
On this day, a strict genna (taboo or restriction) is imposed on the villagers, prohibiting them from venturing into fields, jungles, or undertaking overnight journeys. This restriction aims to protect individuals from encountering evil spirits and potential illness. Traditional beliefs hold that such spirits are present during the festival, posing a risk to those who encounter them.
Revocation of Genna
The senior Pei member eventually revokes the genna, signaling the end of the restrictions. This marks a shift in the atmosphere and allows for greater freedom of movement.
Raangpat Tamcha and Token Appreciation
A contribution called Raangpat Tamcha is made by Banjas, consisting of sweet meats, salt cakes (Tei-kok), and a bottle of wine. This contribution is distributed among the Banjas, excluding the Gaanchang. In return, Khangchu and Luchu distribute a token of appreciation and thanks known as Raangpat Puan to the Pei members.
Appointment and Upgradation of Pei Members
This day also involves significant decisions related to Pei members' roles and positions. Vacant posts are filled, and promotions or upgradations are decided, including appointments to positions like Khunpu, Khullakpu, Gaanchang, and Banja. These appointments and upgrades play a crucial role in maintaining the Pei authority and leadership structure within the community.
Bukaomei Ritual at Pei Kai
The rituals of Raang Patmei culminate at Pei Kai, where a Bukaomei ritual is performed for the entire village. This ritual involves a large fine cock and symbolizes the calling back of stranded souls. The cooked cock meat is distributed to every family, with each member nibbling a small piece, signifying acceptance and good health.
Raang Patmei and Raren Roumei encapsulate deep-rooted traditions, spiritual practices, and community unity, showcasing the integral role of rituals in the Gan-Ngai Festival.
Raang Patmei and Raren Roumei: Rituals, Offerings, and Traditions
Raang Patmei, also known as Keirong Raren Roumei, holds significant traditional rituals and practices within the Gan-Ngai Festival. This day involves offerings, prayers, and customs performed to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the village.
Meaning and Significance of Raang Patmei
Raang Patmei translates to "coming out at the northern gate of the village." This day involves rituals performed at the village gate and is considered part of the festival. It is essential in ensuring protection against harm from gods and spirits. The village priest conducts the rituals, aiming to safeguard the community.
Offerings and Prayers
Each household member contributes a cock, fine ginger, and banana leaves for offerings to the pantheon of gods during the Raren Roumei prayer ceremony. These offerings are made to multiple gods in a specific order, including Ragwang, Buichanu (Bisnu), Kara-Ngong, Napshinmei, Chon-chai, Charakilongmei, and more. The offerings often involve cocks and wine, symbolizing reverence and devotion to these deities.
Distribution of Cock Meat
The cock meat offered during the ceremony is distributed among specific members of the community. It is not consumed by members of Khangchu, Luchu, Mathenmei, Gaanchang, and Chaangroi. Instead, it can be eaten by Pei members such as Banjas, aged women, and young children who are not yet part of Khangchu or Luchu.
Genna and Protection from Spirits
On this day, a strict genna (taboo or restriction) is imposed on the villagers, prohibiting them from venturing into fields, jungles, or undertaking overnight journeys. This restriction aims to protect individuals from encountering evil spirits and potential illness. Traditional beliefs hold that such spirits are present during the festival, posing a risk to those who encounter them.
Revocation of Genna
The senior Pei member eventually revokes the genna, signaling the end of the restrictions. This marks a shift in the atmosphere and allows for greater freedom of movement.
Raangpat Tamcha and Token Appreciation
A contribution called Raangpat Tamcha is made by Banjas, consisting of sweet meats, salt cakes (Tei-kok), and a bottle of wine. This contribution is distributed among the Banjas, excluding the Gaanchang. In return, Khangchu and Luchu distribute a token of appreciation and thanks known as Raangpat Puan to the Pei members.
Appointment and Upgradation of Pei Members
This day also involves significant decisions related to Pei members' roles and positions. Vacant posts are filled, and promotions or upgradations are decided, including appointments to positions like Khunpu, Khullakpu, Gaanchang, and Banja. These appointments and upgrades play a crucial role in maintaining the Pei authority and leadership structure within the community.
Bukaomei Ritual at Pei Kai
The rituals of Raang Patmei culminate at Pei Kai, where a Bukaomei ritual is performed for the entire village. This ritual involves a large fine cock and symbolizes the calling back of stranded souls. The cooked cock meat is distributed to every family, with each member nibbling a small piece, signifying acceptance and good health.
Raang Patmei and Raren Roumei encapsulate deep-rooted traditions, spiritual practices, and community unity, showcasing the integral role of rituals in the Gan-Ngai Festival.
Conclusion
In the final phase of the Gan-Ngai Festival, Zeliangrong people embrace the joyous atmosphere by adorning themselves in new and clean traditional attire. Throughout the night, they engage in singing village guarding songs, romantic luphai songs, and participating in singing competitions. The festival is a time of unity and celebration, with boys and girls enjoying delicious food, merry-making, dancing, and sharing jokes.
One of the highlights of the festival is the pazeimei, a captivating activity where participants wave sashes while singing traditional songs. The festival serves as an opportunity for people to resolve personal conflicts, fostering love, peace, understanding, and unity among community members. The festive spirit is so strong that even marriage plans can be postponed due to the allure of the celebrations.
For families who have experienced loss, the festival provides a time to mourn their relatives' passing, often wishing that death had occurred after the festivities. The memories of happiness and merrymaking during the festival continue to linger in the minds of the participants long after its conclusion, making it an unforgettable experience for the Zeliangrong people.
In conclusion, the Gan-Ngai Festival brings together Zeliangrong individuals to celebrate their rich cultural heritage and ancient religion, fostering a sense of community and shared identity. As the festival draws to a close, warm greetings are extended to all Zeliangrong people living in Northeast India, encouraging them to enjoy the festivities with enthusiasm and a commitment to preserving their cultural traditions and heritage.
Source:
2. Chaoba Kamson, Chaakan Gaan-Ngai : Festivals among the Zeliangrongs, E-Pao
Comments
Post a Comment