Raipur, November 13, 2024 - A spectacular celebration of tribal heritage, the two-day Tribal Pride Festival at Science College Ground in Raipur is set to bring traditional Northeast Indian dances to the spotlight. Artists from Meghalaya, Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim have arrived in Raipur to perform for the event scheduled on November 14-15. Welcomed at Raipur railway station with flowers and ceremonial tilak, these artists will present traditional dances like Wangala-Rungla, Ret-Kinong, Geh Padam E Na-Nyi E, and Solakia.

Cultural Highlights: Celebrating Harvest with Wangala-Rungla Dance

A 20-member team from Meghalaya, led by Mr. Mansen Momin, will perform the Garo tribe's famous Wangala-Rungla dance, a traditional harvest celebration dedicated to the fertility deity Misi Saljong. This dance ritual, integral to the Garo community, symbolizes gratitude to the deity for a fruitful harvest. Garo men and women participate together, with men playing the traditional drums, or "dama," and the dance leader, known as the Grikgipa or Toregipa, guiding the rhythm. The women move gracefully to the music, symbolizing unity and reverence.

Solakia Dance: A Tribal Victory Dance from Mizoram

Performers from Mizoram’s capital Aizawl will present the Solakia dance, a traditional Mara tribe dance symbolizing victory over enemies. Originating as a celebration after a warrior’s return with the enemy's trophy head, Solakia has evolved to become a performance at important community gatherings. Led by Mr. Jothamzama, the 20-member Mizoram team combines rhythmic chanting and drumbeats using darkhuang (paired drums) and cymbals, creating an intense, celebratory atmosphere.

This vibrant event reflects India’s rich tribal culture and diversity, highlighting Northeast India’s unique traditions and offering audiences an immersive experience in the arts and heritage of these communities.