Chega-Gadi the most popular and premier festival of the Zeliang people especially for Liangmai community commenced on 30th October 2024 at Nzau village under Tening subdivision, Peren with MP Rajya Sabha S. Phangnon Konyak and Imtichuba Chang, MLA as the special guest.

The genesis of the festival marks the people beliefs that on this day, the Almighty showers his blessings and bring good harvest and good health. The festival creates an importance in rekindling the loving relationship between parents and their married daughters and between brothers and sisters. On this day, the families of the parents, brothers and maternal uncles prepare their best delicacies and send it to their daughters, sisters and niece.

Chief host, MLA & Chairman DPDB Peren, Namri Nchang in his speech said that it is time to encourage the youngsters through this celebration in order to promote and preserve one’s own dialect and cultural custom. He urged the gathering to celebrate the festival by knowing its deep meaning and roots of the festival. He further, added that culture & tradition is a beliefs of one’s tribe / community which is not to profess as a religion but to preserve its roots and identity.

Addressing the gathering as a Special guest, MP S.Phangnon Konyak extended her warmest greetings to the community for inviting her in the auspicious occasion.

Konyak encouraged the people present to take pride in one’s own culture & identity and strive forward with great initiative and motives for better future.

Others who spoke in the event were, MLA, Tuensang sardar 2, Imtichuba Chang and Deputy Commissioner, Peren, Hiazu Meru (NCS).

The Welcome address was delivered by NZPO President, Zandi Domta while Asst. Professor Central Institute Hindi Agra, Dimapur centre, Dr. Thunbui highlighted the Chaga significance and Vice President, BJP Nagaland unit, Hurui pronounced the vote of thanks.

At the beginning of the festival, Pastor Town Baptist Church, Tening, Rev. Kamwang Rentta offered prayer for guidance and strength as the community marked this special occasion.

The festival featured a rich display of folk songs, cultural dances and presentation. The celebration will culminate on 31st October 2024.