The vibrant city of Guwahati witnessed a spectacular celebration as the Tai Ahom community came together with immense religious and traditional fervour to mark the annual 'Me-Dam-Me-Phi' festival on Saturday. This significant event saw participation from thousands of community members across multiple locations in the city, creating a powerful display of cultural unity and ancestral reverence.
Grand Celebrations Across Guwahati
Guwahati transformed into a hub of cultural activities as the Tai Ahom community organized large-scale programmes that combined ancient rituals with contemporary celebrations. The festival was marked by elaborate ceremonial observances, traditional song performances, and captivating dance presentations that drew enthusiastic participation from all age groups. Elders, youths, and families joined hands to create a strong collective presence that highlighted the community's deep-rooted traditions.
Political Leaders Join Festivities
One of the major gatherings occurred at the Notboma area of Guwahati, where the festival received distinguished guests. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the celebrations, actively participating in the rituals and interacting with community members. The leaders paid homage to ancestors as part of the traditional ceremonies, demonstrating their respect for the Tai Ahom heritage.
During the event, Chief Minister Sarma unveiled a magnificent statue of Swargadeo Chaolung Siu-Ka-Pha, a significant historical figure for the Tai Ahom community. This unveiling ceremony added a special dimension to the festival celebrations, symbolizing the enduring legacy of Tai Ahom civilization in Assam.
Messages of Unity and Heritage
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma extended his heartfelt greetings to the Tai Ahom community and all residents of Assam on this auspicious occasion. He emphasized the historical importance of Swargadeo Chaolung Sukaphaa, who laid the foundation of Tai Ahom civilization and initiated a new chapter in Assam's cultural development.
"This sacred festival reminds us of our rich heritage, ancestral values, and the spirit of unity and harmony," stated Sarma during the celebrations. He further highlighted how the festival serves as a powerful reminder of the community's collective identity and cultural continuity.
Social Media Engagement
Taking to social media platform 'X', Chief Minister Sarma shared additional thoughts about the festival's significance. He noted that Swargadeo Chaolung Siu-Ka-Pha established one of the greatest kingdoms of Bharatvarsha, a realm that operated through consensus and was deeply committed to protecting heritage and identity.
"Today, on the sacred occasion of Me-Dam-Me-Phi, we dedicated his Bhavya Murti in the heart of Guwahati," Sarma posted, referring to the grand statue unveiling ceremony that became a centerpiece of the day's celebrations.
Festival Significance and Participation
The Me-Dam-Me-Phi festival, which centers on ancestral worship, attracted massive turnouts of devotees at various venues throughout Guwahati. The celebrations were characterized by:
- Ancient ritual observances passed down through generations
- Traditional cultural showcases featuring Tai Ahom arts
- Community gatherings that strengthened social bonds
- Educational aspects about Tai Ahom history and traditions
The festival's successful organization and widespread participation demonstrated the Tai Ahom community's commitment to preserving their unique cultural identity while sharing it with the broader population of Assam. The event served as a beautiful example of how traditional festivals can bring communities together while honoring historical legacies and promoting cultural harmony.
