Mera Hou Chongba festival at Kangla Fort promotes unity among Manipur communities and strengthens hill-valley ties.
IMPHAL — The Mera Hou Chongba festival was celebrated at the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal on Monday to promote solidarity, preserve traditional bonds and strengthen brotherhood among the different ethnic communities of Manipur’s hills and valleys.
Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, former Rajya Sabha MP Maharaja Leishemba Sanajaoba, and ministers Govindas Konthoujam (Home) and Khuraijam Loken Singh (Arts and Culture and Tourism) attended the celebration.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described Mera Hou Chongba, a tradition observed since the reign of Ebudhou Nongda Lairen Pakhangba, as a “Day of Integrity” that reflects the unity and integrity of Manipur.
Highlighting the shared history of the state’s 36 communities, Singh said they had stood together to defend their land and independence during significant historical periods, including the Anglo-Manipur War and the Seven Years’ Devastation.
He emphasised that their shared history and collective sacrifices underscored the importance of preserving Manipur’s unity and integrity.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged Maharaja Sanajaoba’s deep emotional bond with the hill communities and lauded his initiatives in ensuring the timely completion of the Hill Chiefs’ Guest House.
Singh said the newly constructed facility would provide suitable accommodation for hill chiefs visiting Imphal.
He expressed hope that the guest house would further strengthen ties between the hill and valley communities and serve as a welcoming space for hill chiefs and community leaders visiting the state capital.
In his message on the eve of the festival, the Chief Minister extended greetings to the people and called for renewed efforts to preserve Manipur’s cultural heritage and strengthen unity and understanding among all communities.
“On this occasion, let us renew our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage and strengthening the bonds of unity and understanding among all communities,” he said.
The exchange of gifts between representatives of the hill and valley communities, symbolising friendship, mutual respect and unity, was among the major highlights of the festival.
The release of the festival souvenir was another key event.
MLAs, Chief Secretary Rajeev Singh Thakur, hill chiefs, government officials, police personnel and others attended the celebration.