The first international cultural festival of the Mizos christened as Mizo Hnahthlak International Cultural Festival began on Thursday at R Dengthuama Hall in Aizawl. Mizoram chief minister Lal Thanhawla graced the event as chief guest.
Mizoram home minister R Lalzirliana, art & culture minister R Romawia and NLUP Implementation Board chairman JH Rothuama were among the top dignitaries present at the cultural festival.
“Though divided by state and international boundaries the rich cultural elements of the Mizos have united us and have formed a cultural nation within our hearts. We should all stay united through culture and that will imbibe the true spirit of Mizo nationalism,” Lal Thanhawla said.
The cultural fest featured all the ethnic tribes and sub tribes of the Mizos showcasing their diverse cultural dances.
Home minister R Lalzirliana said that the demarcation of the region by the British had divided the settlements of the Mizos. “To safeguard the Mizos, we have to be united culturally, we must stand united against the outside element that can hamper our culture,” R Lalzirliana said.
Cultural contingents from neighbouring states of Assam, Manipur and Tripura performed their distinct sub-tribal cultural dances. Cultural troupes from Myanmar and Bangladesh also came for the fest.