Newmai News Network Dimapur | October 31 The Rongmei citizens of Delhi and NCR held their first ‘Freshers Meet and Cultural Day’ on October 27 at Daulat Ram College auditorium, New University North Campus. The programme was held under the banner of Rongmei Chamnac Phwam Delhi (RPCD) (Rongmei Students Organisation, Delhi) in association with Rongmei Phwam Delhi and Pann Nu Foundation. The theme of the event was “Identity with a Purpose.” The programme was opened with “lautay-Laudy laam“ folk dance (harvest dance) by the Rongmei Naga Dance Troupe followed by presidential and welcome speech by K Gaisinlung (President, RCPD), while Rev. Kamthui Panmei (Adviser RPD) spoke on the theme of the event. Elder T T. Kabui (Adviser RPD) exhorted the gathering and Rev. Dr. Kadimna Gangmei (Adviser RPD) deliberated on the confusion regarding the tribe’s identity. During the programme, “Rongmei Awards” were given out to “achievers” in various fields. Kachanglu Gonmei was given for her academic performance. The “Competitive Examination Award” was given to Ganreipou Gangmei for his success in the Civil Services Examination 2017. John Mpamei was presented the “Artist Award” for his achievement in music. Rev. Jaojian Gangmei was presented the “Social Work Award” for his “tireless” contributions in helping the society in times of need. Zangdipou Panmei was awarded for his achievement in sports (football). Remmei Parlour (Rebecca Remmei) and Alliance Study Group (Chamdaanthaipou Malangmei) were given the “Entrepreneurs Awards.” Rima Panmei was acknowledged for her support and leadership in building the dance troupe. Kachanglu Gangmei was crowned Miss Rongmei Fresher 2018 and Mathiuthuan Riamei won Mister Rongmei Fresher 2018 title. According to the organisers, the programme was also meant to bring people together with the aim to build strong community bonding, to connect/reconnect the youngsters with their culture, to revive traditional songs, dances, traditional attires, and traditional rich cuisines. Many Rongmei artists including Lulu Gangmei, Jonah Mpamei, Leander Kamsuan, Gracy Gangmei, Dichunlung Gangmei, Ambrose Kahmei, Malan Thow Pamei performed during the programme. A child prodigy Nchumsuiliu Panmei enthralled the audience with her singing. Elder Lungkuliu Kahmei renditioned a Rongmei folk song. D Thongongthui sang the famous Gayriamang love song. The programme ended with vote of thanks by Huaineiguang Gangmei, General Secretary of RCPD.
