ITANAGAR, Feb 13: Governor Lt General (Retd) KT Parnaik extended his warm greetings to the people of the State on Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi, the annual ethno-cultural festival of the Singpho community.
In his message, the Governor expressed hope that the vibrant folk dance festival would continue to nurture socio-cultural harmony among all communities and play a meaningful role in preserving and celebrating the State’s rich cultural heritage.
He stated that Shapawng Yawng Manau Poi is the most sacred and cherished festival of the Singpho community, observed with deep devotion to express gratitude to Shapawng Yawng, the Supreme Creator, for peace, prosperity, a bountiful harvest, and the well-being of all. The festival is marked by solemn prayers, traditional rituals, and the iconic Manau dance performed in graceful harmony by men and women in traditional attire, symbolising unity, discipline, and the rhythm of life.
Describing the celebration as more than a festival, the Governor said it is a living expression of Singpho faith, cultural pride, social bonding, and respect for nature, bringing the community together across generations while preserving its rich identity and ancestral traditions.
"On this propitious occasion, I join my Singpho brethren in offering prayers to Shapawng Yawng, seeking blessings of peace, progress, and prosperity for all," the Governor said in his message.