The second day of the Asetkong Kaketshir Telongjem Mungdang (AKTM) 43rd General Conference was observed as “Sobaliba Penzü Anogo,” a day of “discovering the foundations of culture.”
The day began with a street carnival of culture with all the units of AKTM performing a cultural activity each, such as enacting the traditional pulling of a log-drum and parading of a hunted tiger, community log carrying activity, and street folk dance among others.
Late Dr Imtiwapang Aier was to be the chief guest for the day. The carnival culminated at the conference hall where another session of cultural activity was held. The gathering also observed a minute of silence in honor of Dr Imtiwapang Aier.
AKTM president Lanulemba Longchar called the gathering to order with his presidential address while AKM president Nungdokyanger Ao delivered an exhortation. Metet Jamir presented a special number.
Speaking on the significance of the day, Guru S Pangyang Ozukum, President, Asetkong Senden interpreted “Lipok” as “origin” and “Lisang” as “civilization,” and stated that “Lipok-lisang” is the foundation of cultural ethos and practices. Delving into the depths of the meaning and interpretation of the day’s event, he expressed with caution that retrospection on and regeneration of cultural foundations is long overdue. He also emphasized on the importance of speaking one’s native language.
According to Nungdokyanger Ao, President of Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM), “our cultural and moral values are deteriorating day by day” and he stated that now is a good time to preserve our culture. He went on to suggest that each individual should instill the spirit of self-reliance. He said a student’s first objective should be to understand himself, to have a vision, and to work with dedication toward a goal. In the world of artificial intelligence, a student should be smart, innovative, and stand out from the crowd. He encouraged students to pursue professions that fit their personalities and talents.
The age-old tradition of “Yitsüngten” was also practiced today, which is the basis for formation of the customary 3-year age peer groups which was followed by a mass feast.
The day was also marked by competitions on various cultural activities conducted at Süngkotenem Park in Mopungchuket, which included:
Jang Sepa Litet (Winnowing of grains; Women)
Shizüng Tsüktep (Indigenous game; Women)
Sü-araba (Loin loom weaving; Women)
Rongnü Asükba (Bamboo craft; Men)
Karatsüng Asemtep (Bamboo stilt walk; Men)
Nü-tsütep (Spear-throwing; Men)
Arr Atsütepba (Traditional Tug-of-War; Mixed)