The Unforgettable Bonfire Dance

The month of January is the coldest time in Myanmar. The cold is more severe in mountainous region like Lahe`. Lahe` in the Naga Hills of north-western Myanmar is 4,313 ft above sea level and 25· 40' north latitude.
The fit and healthy Naga nationals brave every odd of weather and terrain. This year, delegates from far and near converge on Lahe` against the odds. Some from Layshi walked for 15 days along the mountain footpaths and those from Namyung ten days to join the celebrations of Naga traditional New Year Festival.
Bonfire dance is an important event in the celebrations of the New Year. The evening of January 15th was very cold, but it was transcending with beauty. Ten thousand Naga nationals and honourable guests including hundreds of tourists converged on the venue.
Visitors gazed at the colourfully attired Naga nationals, over awed by their simplicity and straight forwardness. There are over 80 clans in Naga region, but tribally they may be grouped in eight major groups.
As the bonfire is lit at the centre of the festival ground, groups of Naga nationals take turns systematically to dance round the bonfire, singing happily traditional songs. The dances are rhythmic and lively. Spectators are enthralled to join the dance.
Rice wine is a plenty at the dance. Roasted myth on, bison and boar meat and fish are served with wine. The sharing of rice wine is the sealing of goodwill between friends and strangers alike. After all, the festival itself is celebrated to bring friendship, unity and amity.

Naga national traditions, including the bonfire dance, are preserved through the tests of time. It is a rare opportunity to observe ancient traditions unspoilt.