Sangtams in Dimapur celebrated Mongmong festival, the premier festival of Sangtams Naga on Saturday with much pomp and gaiety.
A programme to mark the festival was organised by Tsaru Suro Union (TSU) for Chare villagers residing in Dimapur at TSU treasurer Er. CR Sangtam’s residence, Kevijau Colony, Dimapur.
Extending festive greetings, secretary co-operative director ATI, Lithrongla Chishi reminded that Mongmong festival was a time for thanksgiving and rededication.
She said in the past the forefathers celebrated the festival as “means of jubilation after harvest” and that at present the festival should be a time for the community to retrospect.
Lithrongla also encouraged the Sangtam community to be united, to set good examples to other communities and keep up the legacy of the forefathers.
She also encouraged the community to preserve their rich culture and also asked them to make the best of the available natural resources and contribute for the welfare of the society.
Significance of the festival was delivered by retired deputy director, education J Meren who narrated folktales of the Sangtam community taking into account the details of the whole week celebration.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by TSU T. Sangtam, the celebration was marked by traditional folk songs, folk songs and games.
Hundreds including young and old in their traditional attire attended the festival. The members also observed silent prayer in remember of the deceased members.
CSUDD: Chungliyimti Suro Union Dimapur District (CSUDD) celebrated Mongmong festival, the annual Sangtam festival with songs and dances during a programme at Y.T Sangtam’s residence, Landmark Colony, Saturday.
The festival marks the invoking of God’s blessings for a bountiful harvest, reconciliation among families, friends and with God. The festival is observed for six days and is held in the first week of September.
CSUD’s event is held alongside the events organized by members of different Sangtam villages residing in various colonies.
During the programme the elder male members of the community performs dances and folk songs in joyous celebrations while the small kids play social games to keep the celebratory mood moving forward.
The onset of the festival is announced by the village priest called ‘Bebürü’ who has to be from the Anarü clan. Sangtam tribe is made of six major clans including Anarü, Thongrü, Rüti Thongrü, Mongzarü, Langthongrü and Jingrü.