Dibrugarh, Feb 19: Ali-Aye-Ligang, the vibrant spring festival of the Mising community, was celebrated with traditional fervor at DHSK College in Dibrugarh on Wednesday.
This year, for the first time, the Assam Government declared a full holiday on February 19, this year , across 11 districts—Dhemaji, North Lakhimpur, Sonitpur, Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Majuli, Charaideo, and Biswanath—to honor the festival.
The event at DHSK College was organized by Mising students in collaboration with the Department of Political Science and the Centre for Tribal Development and Research Centre, DHSK College.
Festivities commenced with a traditional ritual led by Principal Dr. S.K. Saikia, symbolizing the ceremonial sowing of paddy seeds, marking the onset of the agricultural season. Dr. Saikia expressed his gratitude and emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting traditional cultures, pledging his support for such noble initiatives.
Dr. Lmakholal Doungel, Head and Associate Professor of the Department of Political Science, served as the resource person for the event.
In his insightful address, Dr. Doungel highlighted the intrinsic link between cultural identity and traditional customs, urging the youth to actively engage in preserving their heritage.
He highlighted the significance of cultural preservation, urging the youth to actively engage in sustaining their traditions. Dr. Doungel remarked, “Identity becomes extinct with the death of customs and cultures; we must live our culture and not let our traditional values and wisdom die with us.”
He stressed that cultural promotion and the showcasing of traditional attire should not be the sole responsibility of women but a collective effort.
The festival’s highlights included traditional singing, dancing, and feasting. The “Gumrag Soman” dance, was performed by young members of the community, captivated attendees with its rhythmic movements and vibrant energy.
The event also featured an essay competition on Ali-Aye-Ligang, with prizes awarded by Principal Dr. Saikia. The entire program was coordinated by Dr. Nirmali Pegu and Bhaskar Kewed, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
Ali-Aye-Ligang, translating to “sowing of seeds,” is a significant festival for the Mising community, marking the beginning of the sowing season.
Celebrated annually on the first Wednesday of the Assamese month of Fagun (February-March), the festival embodies the community’s deep-rooted connection to agriculture and nature. Traditional practices during the festival include the ceremonial sowing of paddy, vibrant dances, and communal feasts featuring delicacies like “Purang Apin” (boiled rice wrapped in special leaves) and “Poro Apong” (rice beer).
The festival serves as a testament to the Mising people’s rich cultural heritage and their commitment to preserving age-old traditions.
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