which was coined on 15th Feb.1947 at Keishamthong Kabui Village. Gaan –Ngai is believed to be originated from time immemorial when Supreme God, Ragwang created all the planets, living and non living things. It is said that in those days human being and Gods were living together in a common dormitory called Khangchu in the house of Tingpu Rengsonnang. Nonetheless, humans lost tranquility in their lives at the hands of the Gods. Peace was regained by them by chasing out the Gods through the aid and advice of Ragonliu, the wife of Tingpu Rengsonang. After regaining peace, the people decided to show their gratitude by offering their crops to the Supreme God, Haipou Ragwang. Offerings were also made to departed souls and a farewell ritual was also performed to them by their respective family members.

In the past, the Gaan–Ngai Festival was celebrated for seven days on different dates by the Zelianrong Community but now it has been reduced to a five day celebration. This celebration was done on different dates due to ignorance of its significant importance, but now it has been fixed on the 13th day of the Manipuri wakching month by the constant effort of the Kabui Naga Association. In earlier days, the first day of the festival was signified by the blowing of the horn of bason by the elderly; however, this no longer practiced today.

FIRST DAY

The first day of the festival also known as Ngai Gngmei, is dedicated to the designated members of Pei (elderly villager) to finalize the schedule of the festival. It includes of farewell dance and songs to the departed souls of their ancestor by the youth of Khangchu and Luchu.

SECOND DAY

The second day of the festival is called Ngai-Dai, which means the grand festival. On this day the eldest male from Khangchu and eldest female from Luchu come with a presentation of their traditional eatables and brewed rice beers. Offering them to the almighty, for the prosperity and good health bestowed upon them. It is then followed by a show of traditional dance and songs with the people dressed in their traditional attires.

THIRD DAY

Tuna Gaan Ngai is the 3rd day festival which is the fiesta of the girls and boys of Khangchu and Luchu. On this day grave yard of the departed soul is kept clean and flowers, candles and incense stick are also being offered to pay homage and tribute to their ancestors. The day ends with cultural songs and dances followed by a comestible feast.

FOURTH DAY

Longkumei or Longruimei, which means Hill trekking is the fourth day festival. It is performed by the boys and girls and senior members of the festival. Mountain climbing takes place in the nearby Hills and praising of the scenic beauty of their mother land takes place when they reach their destiny point. On this day the kings and queens are chosen among the youths and pursue them to get married. Displaying talents like drums beating, folk songs and war dances also takes place.

Fifth day

The last day of Gaan-Ngai festival is known as Nap Chanmei. Concluding religion ceremonial by the elderly people takes place, offering pig and fowl liver as a sign of asking back the wealth that has been spent during the festival and for prosperity for the coming year. The evening session comprise of exchanging words of forgiveness with each other and a warm banquet.

Dr. Heera Marangmei