Ethnic communities of Manipur celebrate Mera Hou Chongba Festival

Imphal – In an endeavor to strengthen brotherhood and unity among various tribes and communities in the region, ‘Mera Hou Chongba’ festival was recently celebrated in Manipur.

A large number of people belonging to different ethnic communities gathered at the Kangla Fort in Imphal to celebrate the festival.

On the occasion, a rally was taken out by representatives of different communities, who were dressed in colourful traditional attire. People of the hills, including village heads from districts like Senapati, Chandel and Ukhrul took part in the festival.

“Such festivals bring love, peace and harmony to our state. Let us all live together in peace, even in the future. Everybody should encourage and participate in such festivals so that there will be peace and unity in the region,” said Leishemba Sanajaoba, the titular king.

People from tribes like Mao, Maram, Maring, Tangkhul, Kabui, Zeme, Liangmei, Tarao, Chiru, Kom, Kharam, Haokip, Gangte and Paite took part in the event. Exchange of gifts between people, and presentation of cultural programmes were the highlights of the festival.

“People from the Hills and the plains come together, dine together. So organizing such festivals will definitely strengthen ties and peace among us. It is a good festival,” said  Kadai Villa, a participant.

“I came here to participate in the Mera Hou Chongba festival. It promotes harmony in our state and we also want to perform our cultural dance,” added Eric, another participant.

Such festivals promote brotherhood and harmony among various tribes and communities in the region.