Itanagar, April 4 : Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (Retd) Dr BD Mishra and Chief Minister Pema Khandu have conveyed warm greetings to the people of the state on the eve of Mopin, the major festival of the Galo comm ty and wished that the festivity will herald happiness, amity and prosperity in the state. In his message, the Governor said that Mopin is a socio-religious festival of our Galo tribe, which is associated with propitious agricultural prospects. It is observed to seek blessings of ‘Ane Mopin’, the Goddess of prosperity for bumper harvest, communal harmony and good health for all. Showcasing an amazing array of ritualistic and cultural activities, along with Popir dance, this festival is a great medium for preserving and promoting our cultural heritage, he said. He hoped that the festival, prevalent since ancient times and handed down from generation to generation, will continue to propagate the rich spiritual, socio-cultural traditions of the Galo comm ty. “On this joyous occasion, I join my Galo brethren in offering prayers to Goddess Ane Mopin and seek her blessings for each one of us,” the Governor said in his message. “Mopin paints our life with white, the symbol of peace and purity. May this joyous festival usher in peace, prosperity and good health for our people,” Chief Minister said in a message. Mopin is one of the most colourful festivals of Arunachal Pradesh and has become an essence of the state’s que identity, Khandu said while lauding the Galos for celebrating the festival with traditional fervour to spread the message of love and peace. “I join my Galo brothers and sisters in praying Ane Mopin to ward off all ills and evils that may befall on the society and save us from all calamities,” Khandu added while wishing all a “Happy Mopin”. The Chief Minister, meanwhile, appealed to the people to exercise caution as the state witnesses widespread rainfall that may trigger landslides and floods at vulnerable places. TD ARN