NEW DELHI, Feb 11: The four-day cultural extravaganza ‘Vividhta ka Amrit Mahotsav’ involving all eight Northeastern States, which was inaugurated by President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan here on Thursday last, drew to a successful close today.
The four-day gala event tagged “Experience the North East like never before” was organized by the Ministry of Development of North East Region (DoNER) in tandem with the Ministry of Culture, to showcase the rich cultural diversity of the Northeastern States.
The special festival, held as part of the Udyan Utsav 2024, concluded on a high note with a glimpse into Arunachal’s culture as Chorun Mugli’s rendition of ‘Jajin Ja’ reverberated in the air.
This was followed by a recurrence of ‘The Arunachal Tale’, a curated dance performance depicting traditional dance forms from the State. Earlier on day three (the penultimate day) yesterday, an Arunachal Folk Concert was performed by ‘Dobom Doji Collective’, who enthralled the audience with their performance.
In the evening, as part of ‘All North Eastern Textile Fashion Show’, designer Shrine Nima under the mentorship of designer Yana Ngoba Chakpu of ‘Yana In Style’, showcased the handpicked weavers collection of different tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and bead work by the craftsmanship of Khangam Jewellery of the Wancho tribe, according to an official release.
The four-day extravaganza witnessed a beautiful display of textiles, handloom, handicrafts, art and craft among others, besides offering an opportunity to taste the varied cuisines of the eight NE States.
Speaking on the inaugural day, the President termed the 8 Northeastern states ‘Ashtalakshmi’ and praised the rich cultural diversity on display during the event. “Our country’s rich cultural diversity is our strength and celebration and showcase of this diverse cultural heritage and its inherent unity brings us together to make us one and will aid in its preservation,” Murmu said.
The President highlighted that the central government’s focus on promoting the NE region, through railway connectivity, has given a boost to trade and commerce and brought about exposure to the region. She also appreciated the guidance provided by the Governors of the NE States.
Union Minister of Culture, Tourism and DoNER G Kishan Reddy lauding the initiative of the Rashtrapati Bhawan said that such an event provides a platform in promoting cultural exchange amongst the different states of India. It also helps in bringing Northeast to the forefront, he added.
Union Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, in his address, said that the festival beginning with the showcase of North East part of India is an indication of the closeness that has been brought about by the efforts of one and all. He was thankful of the efforts of the central government in bringing about development in the Northeast region to bring it at par with the other states.
Rijiju highlighted the induction of more than 1000 personnel from North East into Delhi police terming it a commitment of the central government towards the safety and security of the Northeast people. He added that the regular visit of the Union Ministers to the NE states helps them in taking stock of the actual development in the region.
Later, the President paid a visit to the stalls including the one of Arunachal Pradesh, and interacted with the artisans. On the occasion, Murmu was briefed about the unique craftsmanship on display.