Manipur opens Sangai Festival amid clashes, public boycott

IMPHAL — Amid ongoing public protests, particularly by internally displaced persons (IDPs), Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday inaugurated the 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival 2025 at Hapta Kangjeibung in Imphal East, accompanied by two MLAs and senior officials led by the chief secretary.

Speaking at a gathering after watching an hour-long choreography presentation by artistes of the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy at the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre, Governor Bhalla urged the public to participate in the festival, saying it was “a display of arts and culture, and display of arts and culture needs to be appreciated.”

He said the government was projecting the Sangai Festival as a key driver of the state’s economy in the years ahead. Citing government initiatives, including the construction of prefabricated houses, he said these steps had been taken up before President’s Rule was imposed in Manipur.

Also read: Sangai Festival: Security forces clash with COCOMI protesters

President’s Rule came into effect after former Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned on February 9 this year.

The governor also informed that the state had identified 135 tourist sites, and highlighted events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival at Mao and the International Polo Tournament in Imphal.

Unlike previous editions, public attendance on the opening day was nearly absent. Only government officials and security personnel were seen around the venue, and the festival grounds at Hapta Kangjeibung, where more than 100 stalls have been set up, wore a deserted look.

Earlier in the day, protesters clashed with security personnel at Lamlong in Imphal East, while women from various localities in and around the city staged sit-in demonstrations opposing the festival. The protesters, including IDPs, demanded that the government first resolve the ongoing conflict and ensure resettlement of those displaced by the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023.

The Sangai Festival, the state’s largest annual tourism event, returns this year after a two-year suspension due to unrest, and will be held from November 21 to 30.

Cherry Blossom Festival begins

The three-day Manipur Cherry Blossom and Flower Festival commenced today at Mao Gate as part of the Manipur Sangai Festival, celebrating the region’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. The festival aims to showcase the rich heritage of more than 35 tribes and communities residing in the state.

The inaugural programme was attended by T Pamei, Commissioner and Secretary of Horticulture and Soil Conservation, and Mamoni Doley, Deputy Commissioner of Senapati district.

Speaking at the event, Pamei informed that the government is proposing the development of a floriculture hub in the Mao area, leveraging its favourable agro-climatic conditions under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment. He urged the public to preserve biodiversity and uphold the state’s cultural values.

DC Mamoni Doley said the festival’s inclusion under the Sangai Festival is meant to highlight the unique identity of the region to both national and international audiences.

Major attractions of the festival include cherry blossom viewing and nature walks, guided treks to Mt. Esii, a walk to Elai Che Waterfall, potato farm tours, photography contests, and an exhibition-cum-sale of flowers, fruits, vegetables, local crafts and indigenous cuisine.