MIAO, Feb 14: Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi 2026 was celebrated with traditional fervour and gaity at Miao in Changlang district today.
Attending the vibrant celebration, Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein addressed a large gathering, emphasizing the need to preserve indigenous culture, language, and historical legacy with renewed commitment.
The Dy CM stated that the festival is not merely about dance and celebration but begins with sacred and meaningful rituals that connect the community to its ancestral roots. He said such festivals must be purposeful, serving as platforms to reflect on society, heritage, and the responsibility of passing on cultural values to the younger generation.
Highlighting the challenges posed by globalization, Mein said that while the latest fashion in the markets, modern education, and outside influences cannot be stopped, communities must ensure that they do not lose their identity. “No one will come to preserve our culture, we must protect our culture ourselves,” he said, stressing that language remains the strongest pillar of identity. He called for strengthening indigenous language education in schools with proper implementation and dedicated teachers so that preservation becomes meaningful rather than symbolic.
He also underscored the urgent need to document and digitize ancient manuscripts, oral traditions, folklore, and archival materials using modern technology. Referring to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he highlighted the national emphasis on digitization of old manuscripts and preservation of indigenous knowledge systems. He informed that steps are being taken to digitize rare manuscripts and preserve historical documents for future generations.
On the occasion, the Dy CM paid floral tributes at Martyr Hill to the unsung heroes of the Singpho community, namely Bom Singpho, Beesa Gaum, Ningru, Luttong Senapati, Duffa Gaum, Set Gaum, and freedom fighter Luttora Gaum. He stated that their sacrifices symbolize courage, dignity, and resistance, and stressed the importance of documenting the contributions of local communities, including their role during the Second World War, so that history is preserved with due recognition.
During his visit, he also toured the Tea and Textile Exhibition, which showcased the rich legacy of the Singpho community. He noted with pride that the discovery of tea in India traces back to the Singpho tribe of the region. In 1823, Robert Bruce received tea plants and seeds from Singpho Chief Beesa Gaum, marking a turning point in the genesis of Assam Tea.
The Singpho Textile Exhibition, a collaboration effort between the Singpho Women’s Organisation, India and Dr Anna Louise Meynell, recipient of the Nalli Silks MAP Academy research fellowship, highlighted the extraordinary weaving traditions of Singpho women. Using traditional back strap looms, they create vibrant hand woven textiles with symbolic geometric motifs inspired by nature. He remarked that weaving is not merely a craft but a lifeline of society and an enduring expression of identity and resilience.
The Dy CM remarked that it is quite fulfilling to see today’s young generations wearing traditional attires with pride and confidence. He concluded by urging the youth to actively participate in cultural preservation efforts so that the legacy handed down by forefathers continues to thrive for generations to come.
The festival was also attended by Health Minister Biyuram Wahge, MLAs Kamlung Mossang, Ninong Ering, Zingnu Namchoom, Laisam Simai and others. (Dy CM’s media cell)