Thousands attend Poang Lum (winter festival) at Tuensang
Tuensang, January 12 (MExN): The biggest festival of the Chang community - Poang Lum (winter festival) commenced at Loyem Memorial Ground Tuensang on January 12 and will conclude on January 13. The festival celebration is organized by Chang Khulei Setshang (Chang Tribal Council).
The chief guest of the celebration, P Longon, Minister to Health and Family welfare Government of Nagaland was received to the celebration by beating of Log drums by the Chongpo cultural Society. The celebration was also attended by the many dignitaries headed by DC, SP, and Commandant 3rd NAP. Leaders of different tribal, head of the Offices also took part in the celebration along with thousands of public of Tuensang.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister congratulated CKS for successfully organizing such events which conserve the rich and well kneaded custom and tradition bestowed to us from our forefathers. He began his speech by narrating the history of Nagaland and how it came into existence with the amalgamation of Tuensang Division and the Naga Hills.
“Festival is a tool to bring life to a state of exuberance and enthusiasm; today’s celebration will give a legacy to the future generation the importance of festival and its significance,” he quoted. “With this spirit of Poang lum it helps us to keep connected to our roots culture, values, origin, and to preserve he, said. It is a festival of happiness and joy over the harvest,” he added. Poang Lum celebration is a mirror of Chang community where it represents the quality of the community and its essence.
He applauded the culture of the Nagas where each have different origins yet united as Nagas. He also exhorted the CKS and the councils to shoulder the responsibilities to bring community towards the betterment of the society.
The Poang Lum significance was recited by Chingmak DB Tuensang while the short speech was addressed by Sangkhum Hd. GB C/ Khel Tuensang village and the gathering was also enchanted by a folk dance special by Yangpi Women’s Organisation Tuensang Town.
A press note stated that the Minister also released Ku Si Khang Le (A book on scientific study of Flora and Fauna in Chang Dialect) and Mutei Mangsangh Dolen Thangjam Kumhaang (a book on vision statement 2020).
