At the gates of Changki village on Monday morning, history was marked through a symbolic offering. A buffalo, a pig, baskets of eggs, village chickens and fresh produce were carried by members of the Tai Ahom delegation, recalling a historic episode in 1679 when Changki villagers gave refuge to Ahom King Doddapani – one moment within a much older relationship between the two communities.
Nearly three and a half centuries later, that remembered episode took centre stage as the Changki–Tai Ahom Cultural Connect opened at Jumaba Amphitheatre.
Elders, scholars, artists and hundreds of villagers gathered for a two-day programme celebrating long-standing ties shaped by shared history, reciprocity and cultural exchange.
Organised by the Trailblazer Society in collaboration with the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) under the Ministry of Culture and hosted by the Changki Village Council, the event sought to reaffirm historic connections while creating space for younger generations to understand a shared past.
Leading the Tai Ahom delegation, NEZCC Director Dr Prasanna Gogoi described the exchange as both remembrance and renewal. “Our future generation should know that our relationship and friendship remain strong from hereon. We will take these beautiful memories created in these two days and share with our Ahom family,” he said.
Receiving the delegation, Village Council Chairman Tsupongtsungba Changkiri called the moment historic. “This is a historic moment to forge our friendship and keep this legacy alive for our younger generations,” he said, as Changki representatives reciprocated with traditional tools, household items and local produce symbolizing enduring bonds.
Day One began with a Traditional Ritual Interaction between elders of both communities, followed by a Unity March from Changki Sungkum to the amphitheatre.
Delivering a solidarity message, Director of Art & Culture Adela Moa highlighted the role of such platforms in rebuilding bridges, strengthening cultural livelihoods and safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems for future generations.
Cultural performances throughout the day reflected warrior traditions and ritual memory. Mangko Yimrong Malu Waromung presented a depiction of warriors returning from battle, while Longkama Cultural Club showcased a victory return dance. Changki Orija Cultural Club staged a peace song and the Society for Tai Ahom Resurgence presented the Deer and Peacock Dance. The indigenous Changki game Hekko also drew participation from younger attendees.
The evening session featured a traditional attire presentation followed by Echoes of Harmony, a collaborative performance by the Changki Choir, Dimapur Ensemble and STAR Band Assam, blending traditional melodies with contemporary arrangements.
More than 300 invited delegates, including Tai Ahom scholars and representatives from Waromung and Yimjenkimong, attended alongside over 500 local participants, reflecting strong community involvement in the cultural revival.
The Cultural Connect continues on February 10 with further exchanges aimed at deepening historical understanding and strengthening inter-community ties.