It is important to preserve our unique identity: Syiem

SHILLONG: The Chief of Hima Khyrim Pa’iem Balajied Sing Syiem said that the preservation of rites and rituals along with dances binds the local communities together, adding “We have to remember to preserve our unique identity as an indigenous community. By saying this, I am not opposing other communities. We should be care-takers of our culture.”
Speaking to mediapersons on Monday, the chief said the Nongkrem Dance is a festival that binds the indigenous community together as the dancers are not only from Hima Khyrim but from other Himas as well.
Pointing to a number of youth who are taking part in the Nongkrem dance, he said that the future of the community rests on the wisdom of the young people and the youth taking part in the dance is an inspiration.
Shad Nongkrem or Nongkrem Dance was observed on Monday while the rather cold weather did not deter the crowd from witnessing the annual event held at Iing Sad, Smit. The courtyard of the Iing Sad was abuzz with activity as maiden bedecked in traditional regalia, maidens make nimble steps using their feet and the men also dressed in traditional attire, swayed to the tune of the duhalia.
The commemoration stamp on Nongkrem Dance was released by Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong in the presence of Syiem of Hima Khyrim and his Durbar.
The chief of Hima Khyrim expressed his gratitude to GPO Shillong for releasing the special cover of Nongkrem Dance as it serves an inspiration for the Hima Khyrim in carrying forward the legacy of Nongkrem Dance.
“The release of the special cover, also provides an opportunity to find ways and means to spread the knowledge about Nongkrem Dance as it attracts tourists,” he added.
The State Government has turned its eyes towards Nongkrem Dance with the Rs 20 lakh assistance to Hima Khyrim and assured working together for tourism promotion prospects.
Tynsong said, “The State Government will work hand in hand to ensure the Nongrem Dance is preserved.”
As seen in previous years, the crowd thronged the venue of Iing Sad and the Smit ground where local produces especially the seasonal sohphlang, pomelo, sugarcane and others were sold.
Most of the state Cabinet Ministers attended the Nongkrem Dance and Archbishop Dominic Jala was also present at the programme.