Holi celebrated with enthusiasm in North East

Imphal: Holi or `Yaoshang` was celebrated for five days in Manipur recently.Holding each other`s hand, dancing to the rhythm of music, these youngsters are performing a traditional Manipuri folk dance called Thabal Chongba, literally meaning `Dancing in the Moon night.` Amidst flutes, drums and cymbals raining music, Holi in this part of the country, has a different hue. As part of the celebrations, young boys and girls go door-to-door collecting token donations in the form of money. Holi brings people of all classes and age groups together, as they play with coloured powder, distribute sweets, take out processions and dance to drum beats. Romita, a resident of Manipur, said: "I am very happy to celebrate Holi. Everyone is celebrating with joy. I am happy to be a part of this festival." Mani, another resident of Manipur, said: "Now, it is Holi season, and I am very happy to celebrate here. We celebrate it every year like this, and we should not fight, but we should enjoy it." Residents of Guwahati celebrated Holi by immersing themselves in a festive spirit and showering bright colours on each other. Dance processions were taken out through the streets by locals while celebrating the festival in a show of unity and brotherhood. The peaceful atmosphere also gave a new meaning to the festival. Sangeeta Das, a local resident, said: "Here, people who speak different languages, come together and celebrate Holi, setting an example of unity and brotherhood." In Tripura, personnel of the Tripura State Rifles (TSR) celebrated Holi at the headquarters ground of the 1st battalion with enthusiasm. They smeared colours on each other and danced to music played by their colleagues. Irrespective of caste, creed or religion, TSR personnel embraced and greeted each other and offered their good wishes on the occasion. Karabi Chowdhury, a resident of Tripura, said: " Holi comes once in a year. We never celebrate in this way, but this year, we have celebrated with our family, friends and relatives. So, it has been very good, because everyone has come together here to celebrate. So, this festival unites us." The festival was celebrated with great enthusiasm all over the country.