‘Gaan-Ngai’ festival is celebrated in which of the following state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: Manipur.
Explanation:
- The 'Gaan-Ngai' festival is an extremely significant religious and cultural celebration of the state of Manipur in Northeast India.
- Community: It is primarily celebrated by the Zeliangrong community (which comprises the Rongmei, Liangmai, and Zeme Naga tribes). The Rongmei Nagas are also known as 'Kabui' in Manipur.
- Significance: This is a post-harvest festival. It marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new year.
- Duration: The festivities typically last for 5 days and are observed during the month of 'Wakching' (December–January), according to Manipur's indigenous calendar.
- Key Rituals: The festival commences with the ritual of lighting a 'New Fire.' It involves traditional dances, songs, grand feasts, and the offering of tributes to ancestors.
Other Major Festivals of Manipur (For Revision):
- Questions related to the festivals of Manipur are frequently asked in competitive examinations (SSC, RRB, UP SI):
- Yaoshang: Often referred to as the 'Holi of Manipur,' this festival lasts for 5 days.
- Lai Haraoba: A traditional dance festival celebrated to appease the deities.
- Lui-Ngai-Ni: This is the seed-sowing festival of the Naga tribes.
- Kut Festival: This is the autumn festival of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo communities.
- Sangai Festival: This is the state's largest tourism festival, named after the state animal, the 'Sangai Deer.'
Important Question for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: In which state does the 'Zeliangrong' community primarily reside? Answer: Manipur (as well as parts of Assam and Nagaland).
Question: By what name is the Holi festival of Manipur known?
Answer: Yaoshang.
Question: Which deity is worshipped during the 'Gan-Ngai' festival?
Answer: The Almighty God, 'Tingkao Ragwang'.