Newmai News Network Aizawl | July 5 Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla on Thursday made a clarion call to ‘all Mizo tribes’ to unite culturally, socially and in spirit. He was addressing the first Mizo Hnathlak International Cultural Festival in Aizawl at R. Dengthuama hall. “Mizos are made special by the Almighty as though they have been blessed with different dialects, varied cultures and traditions, they are united in one,” Lal Thanhawla said. “Although every Mizo tribe has their own cultures and languages, they can communicate in “Duhlian language” which is the lingua franca of ethnic Mizos and their culture and traditions are more or less the same,” he added. The CM then urged “all Zo descendants and tribes” to remember their blood relationship and cultural linkage. Lal Thanhawla also expressed happiness for the first Mizo Hnathlak International Cultural Festival being organized in Mizoram as an important step towards re-unification of all Mizo tribes. He expressed hope that the festival brings unity and brotherhood among all Zo descendants living in different parts of the world. The CM also urged the “Zo descendants” to be good citizens in their respective states and countries. Mizoram Home Minister R. Lalzirliana, who was “Khuol Ropui” or noble guest on the occasion also emphasized the need for making Mizoram as the “apex house and main abode of all Mizo tribes” living in different places. He then urged the residents of Mizoram to be open minded and friendly to all “Zo descendants” living outside Mizoram. He also called upon all Mizos to stick to their identity and preserve their cultures and traditions. The festival was organized jointly by Mizo Cultural Organisation (MCO) and New Land Use Policy (NLUP) Implementing Board of the state government. Cultural dances of various Mizo tribes were showcased on the occasion. The event was also attended by many dignitaries and officials including Art & Culture minister R. Romawia as chief host and NLUP Implementing Board chairman JH Rothuma as guest of honour.
