Imphal, November 1, 2017 (DIPR): Dr. Najma Heptulla, Hon’ble Governor of Manipur said that Culture is beyond religion. Though we belong to any religion and worship any God, whichever way our remembrance and creator is, we are all united in one thing, that we are all Indian. She was speaking as Chief Guest at the Noon Session of ‘Kut 2017’ at 1st Manipur Rifles Ground, Imphal.
Dr. Heptulla also congratulated the people of the State for unity amongst the people despite diversity. She expressed her gratitude to the artists for not just performing the cultural dances but also going back into history where their ancestors lived a harsh life in the forest. She also stated that the people of the State should continue sharing their belongings as their ancestors did with the entire village.
She further expressed her happiness for the prayer made in the Kut Celebration as a remembrance of our creator. We should remember our creator while we enjoy the bounty of nature which has been given to us, she added. She appealed the people to embrace ones’ culture, tradition, art, crafts, dresses and foods and also help one another to bring growth and development in the state.
Kut Festival is the premiere festival of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo group of Manipur, celebrated every year on November 1 throughout the state. Also known as the “Chavang Kut”, it is one of the main festivals of Manipur and is celebrated with great fervour and zest. It is an autumn festival of thanksgiving and prayers are offered for a bountiful harvest season and prosperity of the people.
Traditional Dances of cultural troops like Thadou, Hmar, Kom, Vaiphei, etc., were also shown as part of the celebration. The Kut 2017 Festival was also attended by V. Hangkhalian, Minister (Agriculture, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry) as functional President and Deputy Chief Minister Shri Yumnam Joykumar Singh; Th. Shyamkumar, Minister (MAHUD, Forest & Environment Minister); Shri Karam Shyam, Minister (CAF & PD), Shri Losii Dikho, Minister (PHED), Shri Thangso Baite, MP Lok Sabha; GS Haopu, Chairman State Level Kut Committee; RR Rashmi, Chief Secretary and LM Khaute, DGP, Manipur were among the guest that were present at the Celebration. (DIPR)
