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Culture

<p><h4>Boko, June 20, 2019:</h4></p><p>Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha’s 50th Death Anniversary observed as Bishnu Rabha Diwas 2019, was organized by Assam state cultural department in collaboration with Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council and Goalpara district administration at Tahsil Maidan in Rangjuli under Goalpara district on 20 June 2019.</p><p>On this occasion, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal took part as a chief guest along with State cultural affairs minister Naba Kumar Doloi, CM Press Advise Hrishikesh Goswami, Dhudhnai Constituency MLA Dipak Kumar Rabha, RHAC Chief Executive Member Tankeswar Rabha took part as distinguished guests.</p><p>On this occasion, all guests paid floral tribute to Kalaguru Bishnuprasad Rabha. Rabha, Boro and various traditional colorful dances performs in the program. Deputy Commissioner of Goalpara district Varnali Deka presided over the program.</p><p>Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has felicitating with Sarai and certificates to Lady Rabha, Golap Rabha, Lakhikanta Phenad’, Pabitra Rabha, China Rabha, Dipak Kumar Pam, Biswanath Rabha Tara and Apashya Rabha. CM also gives Bishnu Rabha Awards to Reba Kanta Mahanta, famous mask maker and Manipuri Cultural Dance artist L. Ibempishak Devi along with two lakhs rupees cheque to both of them.</p><p>CM of Assam also flag off an ambulance for Goalpara district which provides by Oil India Limited under Corporate social responsibility (CSR), distributing 35 water purifier to 35 schools in Goalpara district, which is also provides by Oil India Limited’s CSR fund.</p><p>Goalpara District administration took initiative for women education and as a part of this under the Rangjuli Tribal Development Block’s 6895 illiterate women will be literate before the International Literacy Day 8 September, 2019 and the program has launched today Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal.</p><p><em>Keep following <a href="https://insidene.com/">Inside Northeast</a> on Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and Instagram. Do <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidene.app&amp;hl=en">download our app from the Google Playstore</a> for the latest news updates, views, and entertainment on the go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></p>

Bishnu

Bishnu Rabha Diwas Observed in Assam

<p><h4>Guwahati, July 17, 2019:</h4></p><p>As Shravan or Sawan month has already begun, the devotees of Lord Shiva across the country have made their way to Assam’s Sukleswar Temple to participate in the annual “Bol Bom” rally.</p><p>Sawan begins in late July from the first day of the full moon and ends in the third week in the month of August, the day of the next full moon and so will the “Bol Bom”.</p><p>As the first Sunday of the Sawan, today the devotees of Lord Shiva take part in the rally and in Guwahati, the devotees wearing saffron-colored dresses will walk from their places to Basistha Temple to fetch the holy waters of Basistha River and again walk to Sukleswar Temple carrying holy water and pour that water on the “Shivling” situated in the temple.</p><p>These devotees perform these rituals with the belief that Lord Shiva, the supreme power, will hear their prayers and bless them with health and happiness.</p><p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-36207" src="https://insidene.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/jhu-3.jpg" alt="" width="660" height="365" /></p><p>While on their way, the devotees are seen in groups chanting slogans like “Bol Bom”, “Bhole Baba Durr Hain, Jana Zaroor Hain”, etc. to make the path easy and enjoyable. On the other hand, vehicles are also decorated carrying posters and idols of lord Shiva with music systems playing 'Shiv Aradhanas'.</p><p>According to the Hindu calendar, Sawan is the fifth month and marks 30 days of fasting with Sawan Somwar Vrats that are dedicated to Lord Shiva.</p><p>The month holds a special place for all the Hindus as they worship Lord Shiva. All the temples and markets are well decorated during this month and the devotees of Shiva also begin their Kawar yatra or pilgrimage as well. The markets mostly wear the orange or Saffron colour as it is filled with T-shirts, pajamas, sarees, tops, etc all of that colour as it is believed that “Geruwa” (saffron) is lord Shivas favorite colour.</p><p>During the Sawan month, people travel to Hindu pilgrimage places of Haridwar, Gaumukh, and Gangotri in Uttarakhand and Sultanganj in Bihar on foot to fetch holy waters of Ganges River. They return to their hometown just before the whole day of Shivratri and offer the holy water to Lord Shiva. The auspicious month will come to an end on August 15 with a full moon night.</p><p><h6><em>INSIDE NORTHEAST’S CAMPAIGN #LETSSAVEDEEPORBEEL IS NOW SUPPORTED BY OIL INDIA LIMITED (OIL). JOIN US AS WE CONTINUE THE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN TO PRESERVE THE ONLY RAMSAR SITE IN ASSAM WHICH IS FACING IMMENSE THREATS. WE NEED YOUR HELP TO PRESERVE THIS SITE OF GREAT ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE. JOIN THE #LETSSAVEDEEPORBEEL CAMPAIGN AND TWEET ABOUT IT, AND DO TAG US ON TWITTER. LET’S MAKE SOME NOISE!</em></h6></p><p><h6><em>KEEP FOLLOWING INSIDE NORTHEAST ON FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE, TWITTER, AND INSTAGRAM. DOWNLOAD THE INSIDE NORTHEAST APP FROM HERE HTTPS://PLAY.GOOGLE.COM/STORE/APPS/DETAILS?ID=COM.INSIDENORTHEAST.APP&amp;HL=EN FOR NEWS, VIEWS AND REVIEWS FROM NORTHEAST INDIA. DO KEEP FOLLOWING US FOR NEWS ON-THE-GO. WE DELIVER THE NORTHEAST.</em></h6></p>

bol bom

'Bol Bom' Festivities Underway in Assam

<p><h4>Guwahati, December 16,2018:</h4></p><p>D Eloziia, belonging to the Mao tribe, was crowned Miss Barak 2018 in the first state level Barak festival at Senapati district headquarters, approximately 60 km north of Imphal. The girl, a native of Robunamei village, was awarded a cash prize of Rs. 1.3 lakh.</p><p>The first runners up, Nengoichong Haokip, was awarded a prize of Rs.1 lakh and second runners up, Vaihochong Haokip, won Rs. 70,000.</p><p>The festival was held for two days (13th and 14th December) to raise awareness to conserve the Barak, the largest river in Manipur.</p><p>Chief attractions included the Miss Barak Beauty Contest, Barak Voice Hunt and the Tribal Euphony 2018. It was officially inaugurated by Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.</p>

Miss Barak

Miss Barak Crowned at Manipur Fest

Assam

<p><h4>Guwahati (Assam), <span data-term="goog_1835482225">Aug 17, 2018</span>:</h4></p><p>DRISHYAM, a Guwahati-based socio-cultural organisation, staged a play on Kushal Konwar at Srimanta Sankerdeva Kalakshetra here on Wednesday.</p><p>Inaugurated by actor Pranjal Saikia and writer Shankar Das, the play was written and directed by Bhupen Goswami.</p><p>Both applauded the efforts of Bhupen Goswami and DRISHYAM. Oil India Ltd, Assam’s cultural department and Srimanta Sankerdeva Kalakshetra extended support to the programme.</p><p>The second day drama scheduled <span data-term="goog_1835482227">on Thursday</span> was cancelled to mourn the demise of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and a new date will be announced soon.</p><p>Mantu Gogoi, Asim Krishna Bora, Nilakshi Deka, Dilip Das, Anil Haloi and Manabendra Kakati, among others, took part in the play on Kushal Konwar.</p>

Kushal Konwar

Play on Kushal Konwar staged

<p><h4>Guwahati, January 8, 2019:</h4></p><p>The 12-day Dwijing Festival that began on 27th December, 2018 ended on Sunday.</p><p>The 3rd Edition of the festival was organized at the Aie River Park, Hagrama Bridge in Chirang and the festival witnessed massive footfall.</p><p>The event was attended by several bureaucrats, celebrities and politicians in huge numbers.</p><p>The penultimate day of the festival was attended by Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, Rihon Daimary Minister, PHE and Chandan Brahma, Minister, Tourism.</p><p>The 12 day event witnessed world class performances and visits by local, national and international celebrities and performers. Bollywood celebrities too performed during the fest. Mallaika Arora, the Great Khali, Amit Trivedi, Budang Bolong Brahma, Usha Rani Brahma, Praneeta Swargiary, Himesh Reshamiya, Kailash Kher are amongst the few names whose presence brightened up the festival environment. Singer Lucky Ali came all the way to Assam from New Zealand for the first time for the Dwijing Fest.</p><p>Display of Bodo traditional house, ethnic food and culture, book stalls, traditional stage, adventure sports, rifle-shooting, jeep and elephant safari, fireworks show etc. were other major attractions of the fest.</p>

Dwijing Festival

12-Day Dwijing Festival comes to an end

<p><h4>Guwahati, January 19, 2019:</h4></p><p>The historic three-day annual Jonbeel Mela cultural fest has begun in Assam’s Morigaon district, 32 kms from Guwahati. The fair begins on the first Thursday after Magh Bihu every year.</p><p>The event has been held since 15th century AD in the state at a historic place called Dayang Belguri at Jonbeel. The Jonbeel (‘Jon’ means moon and ‘beel’ means lake) is thus called because the fair grounds are located next to a large crescent moon shaped water body.</p><p>What makes the fair unique, you might ask? Well, the <em>jonbeel mela</em> still functions on the barter system. People exchange goods, socialize for a few days and then depart for their respective villages.</p><p>[caption id="attachment_21494" align="alignnone" width="650"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-21494" src="https://akm-img-a-in.tosshub.com/lingo/itne/images/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Untitled-2-10-650x365.jpg" alt="" width="650" height="365" /> Smoked food items at the fair[/caption]</p><p>It was initially held by the Tiwa, one of the Tibeto-Burmese tribes of Assam, to discuss political affairs.</p><p>But despite holding on to the age-old custom, hints of change are palpable in the <em>mela</em> as shops selling factory made goods have come up in and around the grounds. Motorcycle stunt shows have also been introduced in recent years.</p>

Jonbeel Mela

Historic Jonbeel Mela begins in Assam&#039;s Morigaon

<p><h4>Guwahati, February 1, 2019:</h4></p><p>The Karbi Welfare Society Guwahati and Greater Guwahati Karbi Students Association on Friday jointly organized the Karbi Ningkam Kimi Katalon (Karbi New Year) at Silpagram in Guwahati.</p><p>Attending the event, Dr. Mansing Rongpi, MLA Vothatlangso LAC wished all the Karbi community and the people of the state on behalf of the very event.</p><p>The event was also graced by Dr. Numol Momin, MLA Bokajan LAC, Chairman, Urban Water Supply and Severage, and John Debbarma, Twipra Students' Federation (TSF) Organizing Secretary.</p>

Karbi Ningkam Kimi

Karbi Ningkam Kimi Katalon organized in Guwahati

<p><h4>Guwahati, February 2, 2019:</h4></p><p>The streets of Rangia witnessed the harmony of different colorful tribes as a part of the cultural rally organized by Rangia College as part of their celebrations of their ‘college week’. The rally was addressed by different traditional tribal community people.</p><p>The traditional tribal community dresses were showcased at the event. The students of the college also held aloft a banner reading "say no to politics", perhaps in reaction to the volatile political atmosphere in the state right now.</p><p>The rally also witnessed the traditions of the indigenous Assamese community. The people of Rangia town observed the colorful rally and enjoyed the rich and vibrant cultural elements of the various indigenous communities of Assam.</p><p>It is to be mentioned that the Rangia college, which was founded in 1963, is one of the premier institutes of higher education on the North bank of the Brahmaputra.</p>

Rangia College

Rangia College takes out colorful rally to commemorate 'College Day'

<p><h4>Guwahati, April 30, 2019:</h4></p><p>Kherai puja is one of the greatest religious festivals of the Bodo community, which predominantly resides in Assam.  It is a symbol of hope and desire, which has been prevailing among them since time immemorial.</p><p>The main purpose of the Kherai puja is the welfare of both private and public lives. For the welfare of private life, they perform Kherai puja individually. On the other hand, for the welfare of the villagers as a whole, they perform Kherai puja collectively once or twice in a year.</p><p>Besides the welfare of both private and public lives, the Kherai puja is performed for the good harvest of crops. The Bodos are generally dependent on agriculture. So, before and after cultivation, they perform Kherai puja and propitiate different gods and goddesses for the success in cultivation. Kherai puja is very expensive and elaborate too.</p><p>Through a series of elaborate rituals, the Bodo community calls upon the supreme Bodo deity Bathow Borai- and eighteen other deities – to answer the problems faced by them and provide solutions. The Bodos' sacred Shijou tree is at the centre of the puja setup.</p><p>There is a similarity between the Kherai puja of the Bodos and the Ker Puja of the Tipras of Tripura, the Khernang of the Dimasas of North-2 Cachar and the Kheralma of Nepal.</p><p>Dance and music are two of the most important elements of the puja and many indigenous instruments are used by the Bodos to create an intoxicating blend of dance and music. Moreover, magic is a strong component of the ritual as the Bodo deities are said to enter the bodies of the priests after which they participate in rituals. In this manner, the priests and priestesses continue to ‘perform’ until all the deities have left the site of the puja after providing counsel.</p><p>It may be mentioned that many Bodos are now conducting the Kherai puja without making animal sacrifices. Moreover, the after-puja feasts have also become vegetarian to a large extent.</p>

Bodo community

Religion and magic: The Kherai puja of the Bodo community of Assam

<p><h4>Diphu, February 12, 2019:</h4></p><p>The eighth edition of the much-awaited 'Rangsina Sarpo' Award and Folk Artist award ceremony was held at Arboretum cum craft center garden at Matipung at Karbi Anglong district's Diphu on Monday.</p><p>The 'Best script' and 'Best Director' awards went to Jibon Teron, while 'Lekha2' was recognized as the 'Best film' of 2019. Folk Artists Award 2019 was awarded to Khorsing Rongpi Havarkehat (Harowghat). Best Actor (male) award went to Bijoy Lekthe, while Malin Ingtipi won the award in the female category.</p><p>In total, there were 21 categories in which awards were handed out for excellence in Karbi cinema. Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council CEM Tuliram Ronghang attended the ceremony as Chief Guest. Many dignitaries, as well as artists from the region, were also present.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Karbi Anglong

Karbi Anglong | 'Lekha2' honoured as Best Film at 'Rangsina Sarpo' Awards

<p><h4>Guwahati, February 20, 2019:</h4></p><p>The state on Wednesday, celebrated Ali-Ai-Ligang, a festival of the Mising tribe.  The festival is celebrated on the first Wednesday of the Assamese month- Phaguna.</p><p>Ali-Ai-Ligang is a harvest festival of the tribe. The festival has been observed at Kahilipara in Guwahati, Jonai, Golaghat, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Majuli and also in many other Mishing denizen areas.</p><p>The name Ali- Aye- Ligang is combination of three words: “Ali” means root and “Aye” means fruit and “Ligang” means sow.  This is the reason why, the sowing in of paddy is started on this day ritually.</p><p>The traditional dance form, Gumarg is performed by the people of Mising tribe on this festival.  This popular dance performed by the young people is characterized by rapid stepping, flinging and fluttering of hands. The dance rule also demands swinging of hips which reflect vernal passion and procreative urge along with enjoyment.</p><p>The last day of this festival is known as Lilen, and on this last day they celebrate with a grand community feast, dishes like Poro Apong or Nogin Apong (Homemade Rice Wine) along with various other dishes especially dishes made of pork, and are being served, Purang Apin (Packed Boil Rice) is another special dish which is cooked in water with special leaves and served only during this festival.</p>

Ali-Aye-Ligang celebrated across Assam

<p>Haflong, September 1, 2019:</p><p>An 'ethnic food street', which is expected to acquaint tourist with the myriad delicacies of the region, was flagged open in Haflong in Dima Hasao district on Saturday.</p><p>Yesterday in the evening, the Haflong Municipal Board, along with Blue Hill society under the jurisdiction of the of North Cachar Hills (NCHAC) flagged open the Ethnic Food Street at Haflong town.</p><p>It was inaugurated by the Debolal Gorlosa CEM NCHAC. Amitabh Rajkhuwa, the DC of Dima Hasao, Sreejith Tivaham, the SP of Dima Hasao, S Gosh, Principal Secretary NCHAC, and Monjit Naiding, the Chairman of Haflong Municipal board were also present.</p><p>The people from the different tribes took part in the in Ethnic Food Street and showcased their ethic cuisines.</p><p>A musical evening by the Blue Hill society, and the street was thronged by many people visit who wanted to spoil their tastebuds with the ethnic food items.</p><p>The motive behind the food street is to develop tourism and to introduce the tourists about the different tribal food. The food street will open one day weekly on Saturday which is the market day of Haflong town.</p><p>https://www.facebook.com/ne.inside/videos/1279541315550792/?t=0</p><p><em>Join us as we continue the awareness campaign to preserve the only Ramsar site in Assam which is facing immense threats (A Ramsar Site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention). We need your help to preserve this site of great ecological importance. Join the </em><strong><i>#LetsSaveDeeporBeel</i></strong><em> campaign and tweet about it, and do tag us on Twitter. It is time to create awareness.</em></p><p><em>Download:</em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app </em><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en"><i>HERE</i></a><em> for News, Views, and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do </em><a href="https://insidene.com/"><i>keep following us</i></a><em> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast</em></p>

ethnic

'Ethnic Food Street' Launched in Assam's Haflong

Sikkim

<p><h4>Gangtok, September 13, 2019:</h4></p><p>Monasteries across Sikkim came alive with a splash of colors and gaiety today as the state observed its much-awaited Pang-Lhabsol celebrations.</p><p>Organised by the Tshuglakhang Trust, the grand celebrations were marked by dance performances - Victory dance by masked laymen, masked dance by monks representing Mt Khangchendzonga with red masks and Yeshe Gonpu represented by monks with blue masks.</p><p>The celebrations were kickstarted by a dance performance of little monks.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://insidene.com/2019/09/13/gatorade-appoints-hima-das-as-brand-ambassador/">Gatorade appoints Hima Das as Brand Ambassador</a></p><p>Devotees offered khadas (scarves) to the ones representing their guardian deities, Mt Khangchendzonga and Yeshe Gonpu. They also brought fruits and other edibles for offering to their deities.</p><p>The day of Pang-Lhabsol also commemorates the blood brothership between the Lepchas and Bhutias.</p><p>The festival is unique to Sikkim and commemorates the consecration of Mount Khangchendzonga as the guardian deity of Sikkim. It is believed that the Mountain God had played an active role in introducing Buddhism into this kingdom.</p><p>To this day the Mountain God is invoked and prayed upon at Pang Lhabsol to continue protecting Sikkim.</p><p><em>Support Inside Northeast, an independent media platform that focuses on Citizen-centric stories from Northeast India that are surprising, inspiring, cinematic and emotionally relevant.</em></p><p><em>Readers like you make Inside Northeast’s work possible.</em></p><p><em>To support our brand of fearless and investigative journalism, support us <a href="https://insidene.com/subscription/">HERE</a>.</em></p><p><em>Download:</em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en">HERE</a> for News, Views, and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do <a href="https://insidene.com/">keep following us</a> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast</em></p>

Pang-Lhabsol

Sikkim Celebrates Pang-Lhabsol with Great Fervour

<p><h4>Guwahati, October 18, 2019:</h4></p><p>The state of Assam is celebrating the Kongali Bihu, otherwise called 'Kati Bihu', which falls on the Sankranti of the Assamese month of 'Ahin' and 'Kati' that falls in the middle of October. 'Kati Bihu' marks the culmination of sowing and transplanting of paddies.</p><p>On this day, Goddess Katyayani is offered prayers as the people of Assam start lighting earthen lamps before the Tulsi plant for the entire “Kati” month of the Assamese calendar.</p><p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-43095" src="https://insidene.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/hkchds.jpg" alt="" width="660" height="365" /></p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://insidene.com/2019/10/17/assam-sangrami-manch-protestagainst-citizenship-bill-and-privatization-of-nrl/">Assam Sangrami Manch ProtestAgainst Citizenship Bill and Privatization of NRL</a></p><p>Also, people light earthen lamps before the “Bhoraal” (storage facility) and the “Akakh Bonti” (Sky-light) in paddy fields. The “Akakh Bonti” is prepared in a long bamboo with a small hut-like structure where the lit earthen lamp is placed.</p><p>In Kati or Kongali, people adore the gods for a rich collect; it is devoted to the love of Goddess Lakshmi who is the container of riches to mortals.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://insidene.com/2019/10/18/tripura-sp-suspended-for-failing-to-nab-wanted-ex-minister-badal-choudhury/">Tripura SP Suspended for Failing to Nab ‘Wanted’ Ex-Minister Badal Choudhury</a></p><p>This Bihu is linked to agriculture as the granaries run low and farmers work hard for good harvest. Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has also wished the people of Assam on this day for a bountiful harvest.</p><p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/sarbanandsonwal/status/1185021549801168896">&nbsp;</a></p></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p><em>Support Inside Northeast (InsideNE), an independent media platform that focuses on Citizen-centric stories from Northeast India that are surprising, inspiring, cinematic and emotionally relevant.</em></p><p><div class="google-auto-placed ap_container"></p><p><em>Readers like you make Inside Northeast’s work possible.</em></p><p><em>To support our brand of fearless and investigative journalism, support us <a href="https://insidene.com/subscription/">HERE</a>.</em></p><p><em>Download:<a id="set-post-thumbnail" class="thickbox" href="https://insidene.com/wp-admin/media-upload.php?post_id=41910&amp;type=image&amp;TB_iframe=1">Set featured image</a></em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en">HERE</a> for News, Views, and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do <a href="https://insidene.com/">keep following us</a> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></p><p></div></p>

Kongali Bihu,

Denizens of Assam Celebrate 'Kongali Bihu' Today

Manipur

<p><h4>Imphal, October 17, 2019:</h4></p><p>The third edition of the Shirui Lily Festival has kicked off in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on Wednesday.</p><p>It is a four-day celebration which will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the State. Folk dances and folk songs of different ethnic groups and performance by rock bands will be the main attractions of the Festival.</p><p>Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture Prahlad Singh Patel inaugurated the festival. Patel along with State Chief Minister N. Biren Singh unveiled the Strength of Unity Statue as a mark of opening of the four-day state festival.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://insidene.com/2019/10/17/bru-refugees-demand-autonomous-district-council-in-mizoram/">Bru Refugees Demand Autonomous District Council in Mizoram</a></p><p>Inaugurating the Shirui Lily Festival, Patel asserted that cultural events like this reflects the beauty and treasure of one’s culture. He said that joint efforts of the State Government and Central Government can only promote tourism and culture.</p><p>Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said that around Rs. 600 Crore would be allocated for improving road connectivity in Ukhrul district alone. Another Rs 250 Crore has been sanctioned for the construction of roads connecting Kamjong and Tengnoupal districts.</p><p>Also Read: <a href="https://insidene.com/2019/10/17/gujarat-citizens-write-open-letter-to-govt-of-india-to-restore-human-rights-in-kashmir/">Gujarat Citizens Write Open Letter to Govt. of India to Restore Human Rights in Kashmir</a></p><p>It may be mentioned here that Manipur’s Ukhrul district is called the home to the endangered Shirui Lily.</p><p><em>Support Inside Northeast (InsideNE), an independent media platform that focuses on Citizen-centric stories from Northeast India that are surprising, inspiring, cinematic and emotionally relevant.</em></p><p><div class="google-auto-placed ap_container"></p><p><em>Readers like you make Inside Northeast’s work possible.</em></p><p><em>To support our brand of fearless and investigative journalism, support us <a href="https://insidene.com/subscription/">HERE</a>.</em></p><p><em>Download:<a id="set-post-thumbnail" class="thickbox" href="https://insidene.com/wp-admin/media-upload.php?post_id=41910&amp;type=image&amp;TB_iframe=1">Set featured image</a></em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en">HERE</a> for News, Views, and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do <a href="https://insidene.com/">keep following us</a> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></p><p></div></p>

Shirui Lily Festival Kicks Off in Manipur’s Ukhrul

<p><h4>Sivasagar, November 5, 2019:</h4></p><p>On invitation of the Deputy Commissioner Dr MS Lakshmi Priya, a troupe of 21 artistes from Thailand and China arrived in Sivasagar district of Assam on November 4 last. The troupe visited various historical sites in the district.</p><p>Accompanied by the energetic members of the team ‘Soulful Sivasagar’, the artistes visited the historical monuments and tourism sites like Siva Doul, Sivasagar Tank, Ring Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Na-Pukhuri etc and tried to familiarize themselves with the glorious past and magnificent heritage of the district.</p><p><strong><a href="https://insidene.com/2019/11/05/tripura-2-more-deaths-in-bru-camps-opposition-blames-biplab-deb-government/">ALSO READ: Tripura: 2 More Deaths in Bru Camps, Opposition Blames Biplab Deb Government</a></strong></p><p>The Thai and Chinese team was stationed in Jorhat to perform in the ‘South Asian Cultural Conference and Exhibition’ which began from November 1 last at Sukafa Samannay Kshetra, Jorhat. Noted folk artiste Jina Rajkumari had been coordinating with the team.</p><p>It's noteworthy that as part of the initiatives of mission ‘Soulful Sivasagar’, Sivasagar Deputy Commissioner invited the team to visit the district. On their arrival, the Deputy Commissioner extended warm welcome to the troupe.</p><p>In the afternoon, the team of Thai and Chinese artistes had lunch at the Assam Tourism Complex located at Rudra Sagar. They were served ethnic and traditional delicacies.</p><p>The Thai and Chinese artistes enthralled the spectators with their respective region's folk music and dance performances.</p><p>As part of the initiative of the District Children and Adolescent Cell under UNICEF, a group of students performed traditional ‘Diha Naam’ and ‘Jikir’. Through their presentation, the students tried to create awareness against alcoholism and misuse of internet.</p><p>On request of the Thai and Chinese artistes, the Deputy Commissioner presented a soulful rendition of Carnatic classical music composed by Saint Tyagaraja (Kriti: Samaja Vara Gamana, Raga: Hindolam, Tala: Adi). The foreign artistes were in all praises about the performance.</p><p>Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner Dr. MS Lakshmi Priya said that music has no language. She apprised the team about various initiatives taken through mission ‘Soulful Sivasagar’ to usher in a huge transformation to the district's tourism scenario. She thanked the entire team of visiting artistes and called them upon to revisit the district in future.</p><p><em>Support Inside Northeast (InsideNE), an independent media platform that focuses on Citizen-centric stories from Northeast India that are surprising, inspiring, cinematic and emotionally relevant.</em></p><p><div class="google-auto-placed ap_container"></p><p><em>Readers like you make Inside Northeast’s work possible.</em></p><p><em>To support our brand of fearless and investigative journalism, support us <a href="https://insidene.com/subscription/">HERE</a>.</em></p><p><em>Download:</em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en">HERE</a> for News, Views, and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do <a href="https://insidene.com/">keep following us</a> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast</em></p><p></div></p>

thai

Thai and Chinese Artistes Visit Historical Sites in Sivasagar, Enthrall Spectators

Breaking News

Meghalaya

<p><h4>Shillong, July 15, 2019:</h4></p><p>The Northeastern hill State of Meghalaya seems undeterred by the relentless rain and the accompanying floods which have impacted the entire country, including Meghalaya. However, the people still have a reason to smile about as they are still celebrating their indigenous festivals with pomp and glory.</p><p>https://www.facebook.com/ne.inside/videos/2063972643706894/</p><p>On Sunday, the people of the hill state came together to celebrate the Behdeinkhlam festival as they splashed around in the water and partook in festivities. Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma took to Twitter to share pictures of the festival along with the words: "Witnessed the annual colourful Behdeinkhlam festival at Jowai. The festival gave an opportunity to connect to our roots and has enabled us to reinstate the spirit of peace, unity and fraternity of our diverse culture."</p><p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/SangmaConrad/status/1150350358780059649">&nbsp;</a></p></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p>The Chief Minister also shared a bird's eye pic of the revellers along with the words: "Glimpse of the colourful Behdeinkhlam, a festival of indigenous faith - Naimtre."</p><p><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/SangmaConrad/status/1150352870622945280">&nbsp;</a></p></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></p><p>According to the locals, Behdein means to drive away with stick and Khlam means plague or pestilence. It literally means to drive away evils and plague and the evil that pollutes humanity in many forms.</p><p>It is used to seek divine blessing for a rich harvest in the year ahead. It’s the most significant festival in the socio-economic life of the Jaintia people those who believe in the Niamtre or traditional faith. Behdeinkhlam festival prays for good health and for the prosperity of the people asking for heavenly blessings for a plentiful harvest of crops.</p><p>Behdeinkhlam is a four-day festival where people of different age make their way to the ground called Biar (sacred muddy pool) to wipe away evil from society.</p><p><em>Inside Northeast’s Campaign <strong>#LetsSaveDeeporBeel</strong> is now supported by Oil India Limited (OIL). Join us as we continue the awareness campaign to preserve the only Ramsar site in Assam which is facing immense threats (A Ramsar site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the Ramsar Convention). We need your help to preserve this site of great ecological importance. Join the <strong>#LetsSaveDeeporBeel</strong> campaign and tweet about it, and do tag us on Twitter. Let’s make some noise!</em></p><p><div class="code-block code-block-1"></p><p><em>Download:</em></p><p><em>The Inside Northeast app <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en">HERE</a> for News, Views and Reviews from Northeast India.</em></p><p><em>Do <a href="https://insidene.com/">keep following us</a> for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></p><p></div></p>

Meghalaya Celebrates 'Festival of Peace' Behdeinkhlam

<p><h4>Gangtok, June 18, 2019:</h4></p><p>The Saga Dawa Festival, which is one of the most important festivals of Sikkim, is finally underway in Sikkim. The festival began on 17 July and the festivities will continue for one whole month. Saga Dawa is celebrated to mark the birth, enlightenment, and the attainment of Nirvana of Gautam Buddha.</p><p>The festivities mostly happen across Gangtok in the form of processions, prayers, and extending alms to the needy.</p><p>Since it is observed on the full moon day of the 4th month of the Buddhist Lunar Calendar, a fixed date is not available for Saga Dawa.</p><p>Saga Dawa, which is also called the 'Triple Blessed Festival' is an auspicious month for the Sikkimese Buddhists with prayers held throughout the month in various monasteries.</p><p>On the full moon of this 4th month of the Tibetan calendar [celebrated as Buddha Purnima in the rest of India] is the main celebration.</p><p>It is believed that on this day the Buddha was born, attained Enlightenment and achieved nirvana.</p><p>A colourful procession of monks playing musical instruments and devotees carrying holy texts, portraits and statues of Lord Buddha is taken out in Gangtok as well as in other towns and villages of Sikkim. People gather in the streets to touch their heads with the holy scriptures in order to receive blessings.</p><p>It may be mentioned that the festival is being observed in different countries under different names. It is widely believed that the Buddhist community has been celebrating the festival for many centuries.</p><p><em>Keep following <a href="https://insidene.com/">Inside Northeast</a> on Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and Instagram. </em><em>Do <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidene.app&amp;hl=en">download our app from the Google Playstore</a> for the latest news updates, views, and entertainment on the go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></p>

Saga Dawa

'Saga Dawa' Celebrations Begin in Sikkim

<p><h4>Guwahati, April 21, 2019:</h4></p><p>Southeast Asia or Southeastern Asia is a subregion of Asia, consisting of the countries that are geographically south of China and Japan, east of India, west of Papua New Guinea, and north of Australia.</p><p>Southeast Asia consists of two geographic regions:</p><p><em>Mainland Southeast Asia</em>, also known historically as <strong>Indochina</strong>, comprising parts of Northeast India (Part of India east of Siliguri Corridor), Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and West Malaysia, and <em>Maritime Southeast Asia</em>, also known historically as <strong>Nusantara</strong>, the East Indies and Malay Archipelago, comprises the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India, Indonesia, East Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, East Timor, Brunei, Christmas Island, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. Taiwan is also included in this grouping by many anthropologists. (<em>from Wikipedia</em>)</p><p>The amalgamation of different cultures has led to many similarities which have turned the Southeast Asian countries and the NorthEast of India into one big whole.</p><p>The South East Asian countries have much in common with North-Eastern part of India. In terms of culture and heritage, both have similarities and are connected due to their common practices and closeness with each other.</p><p>The greatest mirror reflection in terms of culture is the festivals celebrated in these regions, especially in the month of April. The festival of Bohag Bihu in Assam, <em>Pi Mai</em> in Lao PDR, <em>Songkran</em> in Thailand and <em>Sangkem</em> in Arunachal Pradesh marked the beginning of a New Year and hold similar importance.</p><p>Pi Mai in Lao PDR is celebrated with people throwing of water on each other with dances and songs, with the worship of Lord Buddha. <em>Sangkem</em> in Arunachal too follows the custom of throwing water at each other and also follows the worship of Lord Buddha.</p><p><em>Songkrem</em> in Thailand also signifies pouring of water by the younger people on elders hand as a sign of respect. They too worship Lord Buddha. Bohag Bihu in Assam marks the harvesting season of crops with dances and songs. Elders are paid respect by the youngsters by offering traditional scarves called ‘Gamusa’ and they seek their blessings.</p><p>Also, the language of the Tai people living in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam has similarities with the language spoken in Thailand and Lao PDR. Tai – Ahoms or Ahoms are called 'Shan' in Myanmar, 'Thai' in Thailand, 'Lao' in Laos, 'Dai' and ''Zhuang' in China and 'Tay – Thai' in Vietnam. Chin Kuki Mizo community too has similarities with the Chinese. Some of the Naga and Manipuri people of North-East India too have some connection with South-East Asia and may have migrated from South East Asia.</p><p>In relation to the dance form, Balinese dance and Manipuri dance forms have similar gestures and they don’t have direct eye contact. Regarding the attires, the yellow color robes among the Tais in Yunann is similar to the Meitei grooms of Manipur which they wear a day after the wedding. There are similarities between the food habits too as the sticky rice commonly consumed by the tribes of northeast India is like the sticky brown rice found in Japan and China.</p><p>Apart from meat and fish, vegetables too are common in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and other South Asian countries. They all offer similar types of taste with a wide range of unique flavors and ingredients of fermented nature.</p><p>The markets in Myanmar are similar to the NorthEast where goods are stacked in the same way as the Northeast region and have similar products displayed. The Burmese dress is worn just the way it is in Northeast and street food and traditional food items also have similarities.</p><p>There are many common physical features in Art and Dance forms, social structure, eating habits, weaving motifs, hunting practices, and cultural practices between the South Asian Countries and Northeast India. Both regions share an intrinsic connection that dates back centuries. Apart from all these facts, Thailand is greatly indebted to India for spreading of Buddhism by a Buddhist monk sent by King Ashoka in 3rd century BC.</p><p>It was adopted as the state religion of Thailand. During this era, the Thais adopted Indian religious and cultural traditions. The Indians who moved into Thailand in the Sukhothai period (1275-1350) were either merchants or Brahmans who played an important role in the Siamese court. According to Thai people, the King is the reincarnation of the Hindu Deity Lord Vishnu from Indian traditions.</p><p>The dramas of Thailand are inspired by the Hindu epic Ramayana. Thai language too is similar to Dravidian language. Several Thai ceremonies were adopted from Indian tradition. Astrology’s of India have a great Impact on the Thai People.</p><p>For many rituals, they seek advice from the Buddhist monks or Brahmans for auspicious days to conduct or hold those ceremonies. Thai people also make herbal medicines like the people of India. 98 % of the North-eastern states also share their borders with some of India’s South Asian neighbors such as China, Myanmar, Thailand, Bangladesh, etc.</p>

NorthEast India

Brothers beyond borders: Similarities between NorthEast India And South-East Asia

<p><h4>Imphal, July 5, 2019</h4></p><p>The 12th State Level Pineapple Festival cum Sellers and Buyers Meet and Youth Festival, 2019 organised by the Development Organisation Andro Kendra (DOAK) under the joint aegis of Eastern Border Area Development Authority (EBADA) and the North Eastern Council (NEC) has begun from Thursday at Yairipok Thambalnu Market in Imphal East district in Manipur.</p><p>Manipur Forest and Environment Minister, Th Shyamkumar Singh has been the chief guest of the event.</p><p>On the concluding day of the festival on July 7, there would be a special programme - Manipur Pineapple Queen Contest 2019.</p><p>Speaking on the occasion, the chief guest said that Manipur has been producing pineapples at about 10,000 tonnes per hectare which for itself speaks that the State is indeed the highest producer and exporter of the juicy fruits in the country. This high product has been possible thanks to the farmers and the cultivators who have been ‘confined’ to their land, labouring on the soil of the State for years with no proper market.</p><p>Deputy Speaker of the Manipur Legislative assembly, K Robindro presiding over the function said that the pineapples were the products of the farmers in and around the Ngarian hills in Imphal east. Imphal east is the highest producer of pineapples in the State, he added. The fair which witnessed over thousands of visitors from all over the State had to bring in the security forces to deal with the unexpected crowd and the traffic jam along the Imphal-Yairipok road, he added.</p><p>Principal Secretary Department of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, J.C Ramthanga said that the department is not only focusing on the plantation of the fruit but also the market for the farmers at the same time. He further said that the fruits have already been airlifted outside and the department is also concerned with increasing the production.</p><p>According to Amusana, a member of the organizing committee, over 240 pineapple growers of the surrounding area participated in the fair with each stall displaying pineapples ranging from 10,000 to 20,000.</p><p><h6><em>Inside Northeast’s Campaign #LetsSaveDeeporBeel is now supported by Oil India Limited (OIL). Join us as we continue the awareness campaign to preserve the only Ramsar site in Assam which is facing immense threats. We need your help to preserve this site of great ecological importance. Join the #LetsSaveDeeporBeel campaign and tweet about it, and do tag us on Twitter. Let’s make some noise!</em></h6></p><p><h6><em>Keep following Inside Northeast on Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, and Instagram. Download The Inside Northeast app from here https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.insidenortheast.app&amp;hl=en for News, Views and Reviews from Northeast India. Do keep following us for news on-the-go. We deliver the Northeast.</em></h6></p>

Pineapple Festival

Manipur Hosts The Pineapple Festival 2019

<p>Guwahati, February 27, 2018:</p><p><p style="font-weight: 400;">The 200-year-old Barechaharia Bhowna is organized in Jamugurihat of Assam in every five years. This time, the festival will begin from March 1.</p></p><p><p style="font-weight: 400;">The festival first was commenced in 1797-98 by Gayan Bora. Traditional music of Assam like ‘taal’, ‘khol’, ‘doba’, ‘bhortal’ etc is a part of the festival.</p></p><p><p style="font-weight: 400;">The festival started two centuries ago which livens up the small town of Jamugurihat. Commonly the festival is a dramatization of the epics of Mahabharata, Ramayana, and Puranas.</p></p><p><p style="font-weight: 400;">The endowed lord Mahapurush Sankardevas ‘raas’ creation was depicted by a saint called Vaishnavite with the beautiful contradiction of ‘raga’ and ‘tala’. The main idea of the saint was to unite the diverse society.</p></p><p><p style="font-weight: 400;">The cultural ideas can be a good boost for modern technology as it proves to be a good appraisal of rare cultural shows around the globe.</p></p>

Barechaharia Bhowna

BARECHAHARIA BHOWNA TO BE HELD FROM FIRST WEEK OF MARCH

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