Sirarakhong Hathei Festival rescheduled to September 16–18

IMPHAL — The 14th edition of the Sirarakhong Hathei (Chili) Festival, an annual event since 2010 to promote the famed indigenous chili variety, will be held from September 16 to 18 at Sirarakhong village in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.

The festival, themed “A Heritage of Blessing”, will be inaugurated by state Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla as the chief guest.

Located in western Ukhrul, the scenic Sirarakhong village will once again come alive to celebrate Hathei, showcasing its agricultural traditions and the unique chili that has earned Geographical Indication (GI) status.

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The event highlights not just the village’s rich farming heritage but also the role of local women in popularising Hathei cultivation. “At first we struggled a lot to popularise our Hathei, not to speak of getting any assistance from authorities,” recalled Philayan Vashai Zimik, one of the organisers of the first festival in 2010.

Village women leader Alcyon Woleng said the chili has now become a primary source of income for many households.

The festival, usually held in August, was rescheduled to September this year due to delayed ripening of the chili crop following prolonged rainfall, village headman Wungkhayap Zimik said. “These days the villagers keep their chillies like we deposit money in banks,” he remarked.

Sirarakhong Hathei is known for its distinct flavour and colour. Along with Tamenglong orange, it was granted GI recognition in 2021, cementing its status as one of Manipur’s prized agricultural products.