Aizawl, October 2026: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma attended the closing ceremony of the 14th Chief Minister’s Running Trophy Cultural Dance Competition, organised jointly by the Department of Art and Culture and the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) at the Mizo High School Field in Aizawl on Friday.
The competition has been held annually since 1991. However, it was discontinued for seven years from 2016 due to various difficulties. The event was revived in 2024, and this year marked its 14th edition.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that culture was not something created by people but a gift from God, and protecting it was their responsibility.
He said that while the state must continue working towards development, progress and achieving its goals, preserving its culture and identity should remain equally important.
"We must pass on our culture to the younger generation and continue educating them about our traditions. I feel it is time to revive our traditional Mizo songs, including Tlar Thum songs, Chai songs and traditional devotional songs sung in churches during Chai dance programmes," he said.
The Chief Minister observed that people should not blindly imitate the cultures and practices of other communities or feel compelled to become like them. Instead, they should take pride in their own traditions and promote their indigenous songs and cultural expressions.
He also encouraged people to sing and celebrate their traditional songs with greater enthusiasm. He said that worshipping and praising God in accordance with Mizo cultural traditions would be the most appropriate way to preserve their heritage.
A total of 34 Young Mizo Association (YMA) branches participated in this year's competitions in Cheraw and Chai dances. Four of the participating branches came from outside Aizawl.
Competition Results
Cheraw Dance:
Chanmari West Branch
Bethlehem Vengthlang Branch
Armed Veng Branch
Chai Dance:
Pawlrang Branch
Chanmari West Branch
Bethlehem Vengthlang Branch
Overall Winners:
Chanmari West Branch YMA
Pawlrang Branch YMA
Lungdai Branch YMA recorded the highest participation, with 38 members taking part in the competition.
The closing ceremony was chaired by Carol VLMS Dawngkim. CYMA President R. Lalngheta also addressed the gathering.
He expressed satisfaction over the participation of 34 YMA branches, despite the relatively low turnout compared to expectations due to school students being occupied with term examinations.
He said the YMA was pleased that so many branches had participated despite the circumstances. Preserving Mizo cultural heritage and ensuring that traditional practices do not disappear remain among the organisation's most important priorities. He assured that the association would continue its efforts with greater commitment.
R.K. Lalawmpuia, State Reference Officer (SRO), Department of Art and Culture, delivered the vote of thanks and formally concluded the programme.
