Me-Dam-Me-Phi 2023 : the ahom festival

"Me Dam Me Phi" is a traditional festival celebrated in the northeast Indian state of Assam. It is celebrated by the Tai-Ahom community to pay homage to their ancestors. The festival is celebrated on January 31st and it is believed to bring good luck, prosperity and health to the people. During the festival, people offer prayers and food to their ancestors, and also participate in traditional games and cultural activities.

History-

The Me Dam Me Phi festival has a rich cultural and historical significance for the Tai-Ahom community in Assam. It is believed to have originated more than 600 years ago during the time of the Tai-Ahom kingdom in Assam. The festival was celebrated by the Tai-Ahom kings to pay homage to their ancestors and to seek blessings for their kingdom.

Meaning -

The word "Me" means "food" in the Tai language, "Dam" means "offering" and "Phi" means "ancestors". So, the festival's name literally means "offering food to ancestors".

How to celebrate -

During the festival, families gather to pay homage to their ancestors by offering food, flowers and other offerings. They also perform traditional dances, sing songs and participate in various games.

Apart from being a celebration of cultural heritage, Me Dam Me Phi also holds great religious significance for the Tai-Ahom people. It is believed that the ancestors come back to Earth on this day to bless their descendants and bring them good luck, prosperity, and health.

The Me Dam Me Phi festival is an important event for the Tai-Ahom community in Assam, as it helps to preserve their cultural heritage and strengthen their sense of community. The festival is also a time for people to come together and celebrate the positive aspects of life, such as family, friendship and community.