ME’s CJ Photos by:  Tv John Ringsan

BANGALORE, DEC 7, (Deccan Herald): The300-member strong Hmar community of Bangalore, who have come from various states like Manipur, Mizoram, Assam and Meghalaya, celebrated Sikpui Ruoi, (Sikpui festival) here in the City on Saturday (Dec 5) with pomp and show.

‘Sikpui’ festival is a colourful winter festival and one of the most awaited festivals of the Hmar tribe of Northeast India. It is celebrated throughout the country on December 5. “The purpose of the festival is to build a stronger bond among members of the community,” according to organizing president, Randolf Amaw.

Speaking as ‘Sikpui Pa’ (Sikpui Father) the Reverend Lalsandam Songate said, “Sikpui fest is observed to keep alive the traditions of our forefathers. It is also not against our new religion-Christianity.”

Among the special items on show were the famous bamboo dance in which the dancers move between the ‘clappings’ of the bamboo sticks.

Hmar rapper Puia Sakum and friends performed special numbers to kick up the mood of the festival. Participants dance into the evening and the festival was concluded with ‘Sikpui Ruoi’ (Sikpui feast) in which Hmar traditional delicacies like Bawngsa chartang (beef chilly dish) and Hmepawk (mashed-rice with meat) were served.