Team Goemkarponn
MIRABAG: Even as their agitation against the proposed bandara project on the Zuari River intensifies, villagers of Mirabag have ensured that their centuries-old Shigmo traditions remain uninterrupted.
Traditionally, during Shigmo, ‘Mel’ troupes move from house to house in the village, where families welcome them with specially prepared meals. This year, however, with a large number of women actively involved in the ongoing protest, it became difficult for households to organise the customary feasts.
Refusing to let the movement disrupt their cultural practices, the protesters shifted the kitchen to the agitation site itself. Food was prepared collectively at the venue and served to the visiting Mel groups, blending celebration with resistance.
Villagers asserted that their cultural identity and their protest are inseparable. They announced that all forthcoming festivals will be observed at the demonstration site until the controversial bandara project is withdrawn in its entirety.
Reiterating their stand, the protesters maintained that their agitation will remain peaceful and united, and that they will persist with their movement until their demands are met.
