Kuki Students’ Celebrates Advent Christmas, Kuki Eve in Kerala with Cultural Performances and Historical Insights

The Kuki Students Organisation (KSO), Kerala, in collaboration with Mary Matha College, Wayanad, celebrated Advent Christmas on December 10, 2024, at Mary Matha College in Mananthavady. The vibrant event, aimed at showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Kuki community, also fostered cultural exchange between the Kuki people and the residents of Wayanad.

In a heartwarming gesture of appreciation, KSO presented traditional Kuki shawls to the college management. The event featured captivating traditional dance performances and a poignant skit depicting the Anglo-Kuki War (1917-1919), a historical event that highlights the bravery and resilience of the Kuki community.

KSO Kerala's General Secretary, Goulungmon Haokip, further shared the community’s ongoing struggles by presenting The Indelible Trauma, a book written by KSO-GHQ. The book explores the ethnic cleansing campaign led by radical groups like the Arambai Tenggols, sponsored by the State government in Manipur since May 3, 2023. The book aims to shed light on the challenges and pain the community has endured in recent times.

The cultural exchange continued the following day, December 11, 2024, with Kuki Eve, organized as part of the Kannur University Literature Festival. This event celebrated the richness of Kuki traditions, with performances including traditional dances and Lamkol, a centuries-old communal dance. Lamkol, performed in harmony during festive occasions such as Christmas or successful hunts, added a joyous and communal spirit to the evening.

The event also included a moving skit on the Anglo-Kuki War, and the Chin-Kuki-Mizo ramp walk provided a modern twist, celebrating the diverse cultural identity of the Kuki people. This fusion of traditional and contemporary elements made Kuki Eve a dynamic and inclusive cultural celebration.

Kuki Eve and the Advent Christmas celebrations offered a significant platform for cultural exchange, allowing the Kuki community and the people of Kerala to build mutual understanding and respect. The celebrations were not only a testament to the festive spirit of Christmas but also a celebration of the Kuki community's resilience and pride in their heritage, despite the ongoing challenges they face.

The KSO Kerala’s efforts to preserve and promote their culture through these events were warmly received by all attendees, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.