Imphal, Nov. 8 : Kut, the biggest Kuki-Chin-Mizo-Zomi post harvest festival, was recently celebrated with pomp and gaiety under the aegis of State Level Kut Committee, Manipur at 1st MR ground here.

Over the years, this annual festival has helped in breaking all ethnic and religious barriers and emerged as one of the most popular festivals of Manipur.

Kut festival is a time for merry making and thanksgiving for plentiful harvest. It is also an occasion that strengthens social bonds as people come together to celebrate.

Thousands of people in traditional attire and in festive spirit gathered to celebrate Kut festival, the biggest and one of the most awaited festivals in Manipur.

This year, it was celebrated with a difference, with the main focus being on ''communal peace and harmony.''

Bringing the spirit of the festival alive, various cultural and dance troupes from different tribes of Manipur performed colorful traditional dances and folk songs.

Shangnising Mayon, one participant, said: “Let this Kut festival bring a spirit of unity among different tribes and let this kind of festival bring peace in our land Manipur."

Kimneilan Kipgen, another participant, said: “This dance and the one we are participating in, shows that there will be peace and harmony in our state."

Since 1979, Kut festival is bein celebrated all across the state, and it has gained in popularity.

P. Doungel, Secretary, State Level Kut Committee, said: “Kut has the most universal appeal in our state. If you come and see our Miss Kut contests, the majority of them are not from our Chin Kuki Mizo group but from other groups. This is very encouraging fact and it shows that people appreciate it."

A fashion parade and beauty contest were also organized on this festive occasion.

The contest among the 24 young girls representing different communities of Manipur for Miss Kut title, demonstrated an enhanced feeling of oneness and brotherhood among all here. (ANI)