Original Source: www.postcourier.com.pg
Prepare to immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of culture as Kopen village, nestled just outside Wabag in the heart of Enga Province, gears up to host the thrilling Kopen Take Pii Festival. From December 11 to 13, 2024, the aroma of traditional foods will waft through the air, and the sounds of drums and melodies will entice your senses. This colorful celebration marks its third annual adventure, showcasing a wide array of customs and practices that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Distinguished guests including the Enga Provincial Member Sir Peter Ipatas and Minister for Arts, Culture, and Tourism Belden Namah are set to grace the event, weaving together local and national support. This year’s festival aligns with the inauguration of the Haus Man, a traditional ceremonial house, and the innovative Cultural Research Centre, harbingers of history where fascinating artifacts and tourism treasures will be unveiled.
Chairman Luke Lale passionately emphasized the importance of this festive occasion, expressing heartfelt thanks to all involved stakeholders. With a lineup brimming with vibrancy, attendees can anticipate traditional singing, spirited sports, intriguing courtship dances, and exhibitions ranging from eco-tourism to the unique Bilum crafts and enchanting sand painting, stirring a sense of unity and respect for cultural diversity.
Focusing on three pivotal objectives, the festival aims to celebrate cultural diversity, ignite independent thought among the youth, and foster inter-cultural understanding. This artistic fervor arises from the National Cultural Commission’s dedication to safeguarding indigenous cultural resources that risk fading away amid modern influences. With every dance step, sung note, and crafted piece, the festival reinscribes the story of a culture rich with tradition, alive and thriving beneath the vast Enga skies.
The Kopen Take Pii Festival serves as a vibrant emblem of Enga Province’s rich cultural landscape, celebrating the region’s tradition and heritage in an inclusive and festive manner. Set against the backdrop of global cultural shifts, it aims to preserve the indigenous ways of life through communal gatherings and exhibitions of local arts. The festival aligns with the National Cultural Commission’s focused initiative on revitalizing and protecting traditional cultural practices, ensuring that the legacy of the people thrives for generations to come.
In summary, the upcoming Kopen Take Pii Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of identity, unity, and traditional wisdom. As it unfolds across three days, the festival encapsulates the essence of cultural preservation amidst a rapidly changing world, offering a platform for engagement, learning, and joy. With strong local and national support, this festival promises to be a memorable spectacle, enriching the hearts of all who partake.
