Dibrugarh: The Kuki-Zo community of Dibrugarh and adjoining areas celebrated the 18th Upper Assam Chavang Kut festival with great enthusiasm, cultural pride and traditional fervour at the TAI Educational and Cultural Centre (Ahom Bhavan), Boiragimoth, in Dibrugarh on Sunday.The festival was organised under the theme, ‘Let Us Take Pride in Our Past, Celebrate Who We Are Today and Work Together to Build a Brighter Tomorrow’. A large number of community members attended the event in traditional attire.The programme, hosted by P Thangsuanhau Phiamphu, was inaugurated by Kut-Pa Lianbel Vaiphei. The inaugural session began with a prayer by Pastor Joseph Thangew of the Kuki Worship Service, Dibrugarh, followed by a devotional service and a condolence ceremony led by KWS chairperson P Chongloi.Kut Celebration Committee chairperson Sangboi Doungel and secretary Jampu Guite delivered the welcome address and felicitated the dignitaries.Chief guest N Boisi Misao, regional director (in-charge), directorate of training and national vocational education and training, ministry of labour and employment, stressed the importance of unity and collective strength.“We are second to none in all spheres of life; we only need to be united,” she said.Guest of honour Letson Chongloi, chief manager of the State Bank of India, highlighted the importance of celebrating traditional festivals to preserve cultural heritage and pass indigenous values on to younger generations.Presiding over the event, Dr Lamkholal Doungel, adviser to Kuki Inpi Assam and associate professor of political science at DHSK College, Dibrugarh, urged the community to remain united and exercise wisdom while confronting divisive narratives. He stressed the need for a shared vision and collective commitment to safeguarding the community’s identity and future.The cultural programme featured musical performances by Hatshi Lhungdim, Unice Sitlhou, Julie Lupheng and Hetin Haokip. Dance performances by the Duliajan and Dibrugarh cultural troupes, along with a traditional attire showcase by Dibrugarh Kids, added colour to the celebrations.The second session featured solo and group dances, performances by the Duliajan Women Cultural Troupe and Dibrugarh Junior Girls, a traditional couple show and a special 1990s-themed dance presentation.Chavang Kut, celebrated annually on Nov 1, marks the completion of the harvest season and reflects the rich agricultural traditions, identity and heritage of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo communities. The festival also symbolises gratitude, fellowship and cultural continuity.
