Mizoram chief minister Lal Thanhawla addressing the international cultural festival in Aizawl on July 5, 2018. Photo: Sangzuala Hmar

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.

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โ€œThough 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,โ€ 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. โ€œTo safeguard the Mizos, we have to be united culturally, we must stand united against the outside element that can hamper our culture,โ€ R Lalzirliana said.

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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.

Sangzuala Hmar is Northeast Now Correspondent in Aizawl. He can be reached at: [email protected]