Assam's Water Resources Minister Pijush Hazarika graced the opening ceremony of the vibrant Poi Pee Mau Tai festival in Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, as the chief guest on Thursday. The three-day celebration marks the beginning of the Tai Khamti New Year and stands as one of the most significant cultural events for the Tai Khamti community.
Grand Inauguration with Distinguished Guests
The festival, organized under the guidance of the Tai Khamti Development Society, is being hosted at the Poi Pee Mau ground. The ceremony saw the presence of several prominent leaders including Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who also serves as the main organizer of the event.
Other distinguished attendees included Cultural Affairs Minister Dasanglu Pul, Dambuk MLA Puinnyo Apum, and Assam's Sadiya MLA Bolin Chetia, creating a gathering that highlighted the strong cultural bonds between the neighboring states.
Emphasis on Cultural Preservation and Regional Harmony
Minister Pijush Hazarika praised the Tai Khamti community for maintaining their ancient traditions while adapting to modern values. "Festivals like Poi Pee Mau Tai remind us of our shared heritage and the importance of cultural continuity," Hazarika stated during his address.
He further emphasized that "the vibrant Tai Khamti community represents the spirit of peace, prosperity and brotherhood that defines the northeast." The Assam minister stressed the significance of strengthening relationships between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh through cultural exchanges and developmental partnerships.
"Our people may belong to different states, but our roots, history, and emotions are deeply connected. Such events offer an opportunity to promote mutual respect and regional harmony," Hazarika added, highlighting the unifying power of cultural celebrations.
Cultural Extravaganza and Traditional Celebrations
Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein commended the community's efforts in organizing the grand festival, describing Poi Pee Mau Tai as "a beautiful reminder of harmony between man, nature, and tradition."
Mein elaborated that "the festival is not just a New Year celebration, it is a reflection of our way of life that values compassion, purity, and balance with nature."
The opening ceremony featured a spectacular display of traditional performances including the mesmerizing 'Khamti Dance' and 'Peacock Dance', accompanied by rhythmic drum beats and cultural chants. Visitors experienced the rich cultural heritage through:
- Traditional Tai Khamti delicacies
- Handwoven textile exhibitions
- Artistic displays by local craftsmen
The festival continues to showcase the artistic excellence and cultural richness of the Tai Khamti community, serving as a bridge between traditional values and contemporary expressions while fostering interstate camaraderie.
