Sikpui fest celebrated

Festive spirit The Hmar community in thier traditional dress at Kammanahali, in Bangalore on Saturday. DH photo

‘Sikpui’ festival is the colourful winter festivals of the Hmar tribe of Northeast India and is celebrated on December 5.

The purpose of the festival is to build a stronger bond among members of the community”,  according to organising 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.”

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 danced late into the evening.