New Delhi: The Chakma community of Delhi NCR celebrated the vibrant Bizu festival with a massive gathering at the University of Delhi on Sunday, blending cultural festivities with meaningful discussions on tribal empowerment.
Bizu, the most significant festival of the Chakma people, marks the transition to the traditional New Year and is observed over three days.
This year’s celebration in the national capital took the form of a one-day programme titled “Chakma Yuva Samvad: Empowering Tribal Youth & Celebration of Bizu Festival,” organised by Policy Samvad and the Delhi Chakma Students’ Union (DCSU).
The event drew policymakers, community leaders, academicians, and professionals, focusing on issues such as education, skill development, employment, and cultural preservation.
Antar Singh Arya, Chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), called for stronger initiatives to enhance educational opportunities, skill development, and employment avenues for tribal youth.
He also praised the Chakma community for safeguarding its rich cultural heritage through festivals like Bizu.
Mahishini Colonne highlighted the cultural parallels between Bizu and Sri Lankan traditions, noting similarities with Sinhala and Tamil New Year practices.
She remarked that celebrating Bizu outside its place of origin reflects the resilience and continuity of culture. In a notable moment, she joined Chakma performers on stage, dancing alongside them—a gesture that drew widespread appreciation.
The programme featured vibrant cultural performances showcasing traditional Chakma music and dance. Artists from the Chakma Autonomous District Council (Mizoram) performed using instruments like Singei, Hengorong, Dhuduk, and the flute, alongside traditional songs such as Genghuli, Ubhogeet, and Tenga Bhanga geet, reflecting themes of unity, renewal, and cultural pride.
The first session, moderated by entrepreneur Porag Chakma, explored “Education, Skill Development, and Employment Opportunities for Tribal Youth and Minority Communities.”
A second panel, moderated by Advocate Atul Chakma, focused on preserving Chakma culture in modern society. Speakers included Munmun Chakma, Renu Chakma, and Lt Colonel Ben Johnson.
The event also hosted an exhibition of Chakma handloom, handicrafts, traditional tools, and scripts, along with demonstrations of weaving practices. Traditional games like Ghileh Hara and Nadeng Hara added to the festive atmosphere, with Arya himself participating in one of the games, drawing enthusiastic applause.
According to organisers, around 3,000 Chakmas reside in Delhi NCR, with nearly 1,000 attending the event—underscoring strong community participation. Organisers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support that made the Bizu celebration a grand success.
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